Efficacy of Intermittent Fasting as an Intervention for Weight Loss: A Review of Current Literature

Rochester, Minnesota & White Bear Lake, Minnesota

Obesity is a paramount contributor to disease in the United States. Current recommendations for weight loss or weight management are effective with unyielding implementation, although many struggle with adherence. In frustration with traditional methods to lose weight, individuals often turn to unreliable, expensive, and gimmicky methods and products. While some methods work, many are ineffective, unsustainable, and unsafe. Intermittent fasting (IF) has been a topic of interest in popular media as well as research, with new data published incessantly. The purpose of this literature review was to explore the efficacy of IF for weight loss. Four databases were searched using keywords. Twenty-nine articles met inclusion criteria for this literature review. The results of the literature review grossly indicated IF is effective for weight loss but no more effective than calorie restriction (CR). However, data suggests IF may generate greater fat loss than muscle loss in comparison to CR, which may produce health benefits beyond weight loss. In addition, data indicated IF may be useful for glycemic control, which could increase the applicability of IF to the care of those who struggle with glycemic control and insulin sensitivity. IF may be an advantageous tool to offer patients who have difficulty maintaining an appropriate body mass index (BMI) and for whom CR was not efficacious. IF presents a viable alternative to CR for weight loss with promising potential for disease prevention and management; however, close monitoring may be required for those at risk for hypoglycemia. More research is needed with larger participant numbers and long-term analysis to fully appreciate the health benefits of IF.