Diet-Induced Variability in Appetite (DIVA)

The Impact of Weight Loss Through Alternate Day Fasting on Homeostatic and Hedonic Appetite Control and Eating Behaviour: a Proof of Concept Randomized Controlled Trial

The aim of this study is to test the hypothesis that dietary weight loss (WL) through alternate day fasting (ADF) will enhance appetite control, health markers and wellbeing following WL compared to standard daily calorie restriction (CR).

This is a proof of concept randomized controlled trial in which overweight/obese females will be randomised to a dietary weight loss intervention (ADF or CR) to achieve ≥5% WL. Behavioural measures of appetite control including ad libitum intake after a fixed meal, body composition, resting metabolic rate, measured physical activity and daily energy expenditure, sleep quality, hedonic food reward and eating behaviour traits will be assessed before, during and after the WL intervention in those who reach the target weight loss within 12 weeks. After weight loss phase, participants will be given standard healthy eating and physical activity advice for weight maintenance and body weight will be followed up after weight loss at 12 months.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Female participants aged between 18 and 55 years at the time of signing informed consent
• BMI of 25.0 - 34.9 kg/m2

Exclusion Criteria:

• Significant health problems which in the opinion of the investigator, might jeopardise participant's safety or compliance with the protocol
• Currently enrolled in a weight loss programme or following a specific diet plan.
• History of eating disorders including binge eating.
• Taking any medication or supplements known to affect appetite or weight within the past month and/or during the study
• Pregnant, planning to become pregnant or breastfeeding
• History of anaphylaxis to food
• Known food allergies or food intolerance
• Smokers and those who have recently ceased smoking (< 6 months)
• BMI < 24.9 kg/m2 or > 35 kg/m2
• Volunteers having lost significant amount of weight in the previous 6 months (± 4kg)
• Volunteers who exercise > 3 days per week or have significantly changed their physical activity patterns in the past 6 months or who intend to change them during the study
• Participants receiving systemic or local treatment likely to interfere with evaluation of the study parameters
• Participants who work in appetite or feeding related areas.
• Participants who do shift work