London: Intermittent fasting is no more effective for shedding excess weight than standard calorie-controlled diets and offers only minimal benefits over not dieting at all, according to a major global review of scientific evidence.
The analysis of 22 international studies found that adults who were overweight or living with obesity lost roughly the same amount of weight through traditional dietary advice as those following fasting plans such as the 5:2 approach popularised by Michael Mosley.
On average, participants lost only about 3 percent of their body weight through fasting, below the 5 percent reduction doctors consider clinically meaningful. Researchers said the findings suggest intermittent fasting is not a superior strategy for weight management, though it can still be one option among many.
Dr. Luis Garegnani, lead author of the review conducted under the Cochrane collaboration, remarked that, “Intermittent fasting is not a miracle solution. It likely yields results similar to traditional dietary approaches. It doesn’t appear clearly better, but it’s not worse either.”
Fasting diets, which involve restricting eating to specific hours or abstaining from food on certain days have surged in popularity that claims they can improve metabolism, brain health and even longevity. However, the review found no strong evidence that fasting improved quality of life more than conventional diets.
The studies, involving nearly 2,000 adults across Europe, North America, China, Australia and South America, examined multiple fasting methods including alternate-day fasting, time-restricted eating and the 5:2 diet.
Most trials tracked outcomes for no longer than 12 months, limiting insight into long-term effects. Experts say the lack of consistent definitions and the short duration of studies make it difficult to draw firm conclusions. Some scientists also point to the body’s circadian rhythms and metabolic responses as factors that may influence outcomes.
Separate research indicates fasting could affect fat metabolism, insulin sensitivity and inflammation, but evidence in humans remains inconclusive. Other studies suggest people may become less physically active while fasting, potentially offsetting any calorie deficit.
Researchers emphasised that while some individuals may feel better on fasting regimens, there is currently no robust proof of significant health advantages beyond modest weight loss. The review highlights the need for longer, higher-quality trials to determine whether intermittent fasting offers meaningful benefits for obesity, ageing or chronic disease prevention.
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