Effects of Periodic Fasting Versus Daily Energy Restriction on Metabolic Health

Effects of Periodic Fasting Versus Daily Energy Restriction on Metabolic Health

The aim of this study is to examine whether periodic fasting improves markers of diabetes risk and cardiovascular health, and will compare this to the effects observed with daily dieting by energy restriction, and also with no change in energy intake.

It is hypothesized that periodic fasting, with or without weight loss, will be as effective as daily energy restriction to improve markers of metabolic health and energy metabolism.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Body mass index (BMI) between 25 and 42 kg/m2
• weight stable (<5% fluctuation in body weight for the 6 months prior to study entry)

Exclusion Criteria:

• history of cardiovascular disease, diabetes, major psychiatric disorders, and eating disorders
• use of prescribed or non-prescribed medications with may affect energy metabolism, gastrointestinal function, body weight, or appetite
• recent weight changes in 3 months prior to study entry
• uncontrolled asthma, current fever, upper respiratory infections
• individuals who regularly perform high intensity exercise (>2 sessions per week)
• pregnancy, lactation (breast feeding), women who are planning to become pregnant
• current intake of >140g of alcohol per week
• current smoker of cigarettes/cigars/marijuana
• current intake of any illicit substance
• experience claustrophobia in confined spaces
• has donated blood within the past 3 months
• unable to comprehend the study protocol
• experiences migraines