Annals of Internal MedicineTime-Restricted Eating in Adults with Metabolic Syndrome: A Randomized Controlled Trial

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This study evaluates the effectiveness of time-restricted eating (TRE) as a lifestyle intervention for adults with metabolic syndrome. The research compares standard-of-care (SOC) nutritional counseling alone to SOC combined with a personalized 8- to 10-hour TRE intervention over a 3-month period. The findings suggest that TRE may offer modest improvements in glycemic regulation and potentially broader cardiometabolic health benefits for adults with metabolic syndrome, even when added to existing pharmacotherapy and nutritional counseling.

Study Design:

• Randomized controlled trial with 108 participants (89% completion rate)
• Participants: Adults with metabolic syndrome, including elevated fasting glucose or HbA1c
• Mean baseline characteristics: 59 years old, BMI 31.22 kg/m2, 14.19-hour eating window
• Intervention: SOC nutritional counseling alone vs. SOC + personalized 8- to 10-hour TRE
• Duration: 3 months
• Primary outcomes: HbA1c, fasting glucose, fasting insulin, insulin resistance, and continuous glucose monitor assessments

Key Findings:

• TRE improved HbA1c by -0.10% (95% CI, -0.19% to -0.003%) compared to SOC alone
• Results were adjusted for age
• No major adverse events reported
• Limitations: Short duration, self-reported diet, potential for multiple elements affecting outcomes

HCN Medical Memo
Although the improvements in glycemic control observed with time-restricted eating were modest, this intervention offers a practical, low-risk addition to standard care for patients with metabolic syndrome. Physicians may consider recommending an 8- to 10-hour eating window as a complementary strategy to existing treatments, potentially enhancing overall cardiometabolic health management.

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