Khaberni - Researchers have shown a link between two specific dietary habits and a decrease in Body Mass Index (BMI), which may help maintain a healthy weight over the long term.
The research team explains that the timing of eating is just as important as the type of food, as it plays a significant role in weight regulation, alongside daily dietary habits.
The study, published in the International Journal of Behavioral Nutrition and Physical Activity, revealed that extending the nighttime fasting period and eating breakfast earlier are associated with weight loss over time.
The study was based on analyzing data from more than 7,000 adults aged between 40 and 65 years, conducted by a team from the Barcelona Institute for Global Health (ISGlobal). In 2018, the researchers collected information from participants on weight, height, meal timing, lifestyle, and socio-economic background through detailed questionnaires.
In 2023, more than 3,000 participants returned for follow-up assessments, the results of which showed that individuals who eat earlier and extend the nighttime fasting period tend to record a decrease in Body Mass Index.
Luciana Ponce-Mozo, formerly a researcher at ISGlobal and currently at IESE Business School, said: "Our findings, consistent with other recent studies, indicate that extending the nighttime fasting period may help maintain a healthy weight, especially when dinner and breakfast are eaten early."
She added that this might be due to the early meal timing aligning with the body's biological clock, which contributes to improved calorie burning and appetite regulation.
Camille Lassale, a researcher at ISGlobal and the principal co-author of the study, explained that there are several methods of practicing intermittent fasting, and the study specifically focused on nighttime fasting.
Despite these results, the researchers emphasized that more studies are needed before reaching final recommendations. Ponce-Mozo said: "It is too early to draw definitive conclusions, and we need stronger evidence before providing clear recommendations."
In a related context, the British NHS advises those looking to lose weight to follow a range of guidelines, including engaging in physical activity for 150 minutes weekly, eating five daily servings of fruits and vegetables, and losing weight gradually at a rate of half a kilogram to one kilogram a week.
It also advises reducing sugary drinks and replacing them with water, limiting foods high in sugar and fats, reading food labels to choose healthy options, not skipping meals, avoiding harsh diets, and highlighting the importance of social support during weight loss attempts, stopping eating when full, and consulting a doctor if there are concerns related to weight.
