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Objective:

To examine the effectiveness of intermittent energy restriction in the treatment for overweight and obesity in adults, when compared to usual care treatment or no treatment.

Introduction:

Intermittent energy restriction encompasses dietary approaches including intermittent fasting, alternate day fasting, and fasting for two days per week. Despite the recent popularity of intermittent energy restriction and associated weight loss claims, the supporting evidence base is limited.

Inclusion criteria:

This review included overweight or obese (BMI≥ 25 kg/m 2) adults (≥ 18 years). Intermittent energy restriction was defined as consumption of≤ 800 kcal on at least one day, but no more than six days per week. Intermittent energy restriction interventions were compared to no treatment (ad libitum diet) or usual care (continuous energy restriction∼ 25% of recommended energy intake). Included interventions had a minimum …