With the recent American Heart Association's study increasing traction around Intermittent Fasting. It's important that the benefits don't get lost in the shuffle.
Weight Loss
One of the primary benefits of intermittent fasting is its effectiveness in promoting weight loss. Studies have shown that intermittent fasting can lead to a significant reduction in body weight and body fat percentage. By restricting the window of time in which one consumes food, the body is able to tap into stored fat for energy, resulting in weight loss.
Improved Metabolic Health
Intermittent fasting has been shown to have positive effects on various markers of metabolic health. It can help lower blood sugar levels, reduce insulin resistance, and decrease inflammation in the body. These improvements can lead to a reduced risk of developing chronic diseases such as type 2 diabetes and heart disease.
Brain Function
Research has suggested that intermittent fasting may have cognitive benefits as well. It has been shown to increase the production of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), a protein that promotes the growth of new neurons and protects existing ones. This can lead to improved brain function, memory, and overall cognitive performance.
Longevity
Some studies have indicated that intermittent fasting may have anti-aging effects and could potentially increase lifespan. By promoting cellular repair processes and reducing oxidative stress, intermittent fasting may help slow down the aging process and increase longevity.
The American Heart Association's results did not indicate any lifestyle difference that the participants may have had. There was no indication of what the participants diets consisted of during their time restricted window. The participants had an average age of 48.5 and were reviewed over an average of 8 years. In which 14% of people died, an alarmingly high amount. Subjects were placed in 5 groups. The groups were uneven with five uneven time windows of eating. Just 2% of people were in the time restricted window of 8 hours eating, with 59% in the 12-16 hour eating window. The reference group was chosen for the 12-16 hour window despite not being the highest or lowest group window. The grouped combinations produced 36 results, with only 4 being statistically significant. The global headlines regarding cardiovascular death were based on .15% of the participants who 1) died from CVD and 2) claimed they ate within the 8 hr window - 31 deaths of the 20,000 participants.
The AHA is no stranger to pushing agendas whether it be ultra processed foods, seed oils, low fat diets or discouraging sodium in one's diet. This new study also contains a lot of evidence suggesting further manipulation.
The most important concept of intermittent fasting is caloric restriction. That must be maintained to receive the full benefit of following the diet. A healthy diet will always be the answer regardless of eating window.