Could the key to reducing the obesity epidemic and T2D risk be time-restricted eating?
Recent research suggests a new approach to eating that might provide significant health benefits, specifically in relation to type 2 diabetes and obesity. The common approach of eating three meals a day with snacking in between may not be the most beneficial for our bodies, according to this study from the University of Georgia.
Key Points:
- Time-restricted eating, which involves having fewer but regular meals and fasting for 12 to 14 hours, may reduce the chances of developing type 2 diabetes and obesity.
- Modern eating patterns, which often include three meals and snacks, could cause insulin levels to remain high throughout the day, leading to insulin resistance.
- Time-restricted eating may allow the body to lower insulin and glucose levels, improve insulin resistance, brain health, glycemic control, and reduce calorie intake by around 550 calories per day.
- Time-restricted eating can positively alter the gut microbiome and regulate hormones responsible for appetite regulation and energy levels.
Additional Points:
- Regular meal schedules, eating breakfast, and reducing meals and snacks could help prevent obesity and type 2 diabetes.
- Fasting for several consecutive days appears to provide few health benefits compared to time-restricted eating.
- More than four in 10 Americans are clinically obese, and almost 10% are severely obese.
- Modern approach to eating was adopted several decades ago and is a challenging pattern to break.
Conclusion:
- Fewer meals of high-quality food, particularly time-restricted eating, emerged as a potentially beneficial guideline for individuals at risk of developing type 2 diabetes and obesity.
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