It’s no secret that losing weight is a challenge, and everyone wants to know the secret to success. Should you restrict your calories or take advantage of the trendy intermittent fasting diet? New research suggests that intermittent fasting is no better than calorie restriction for weight loss, and is actually less effective for reducing body fat. Let’s take a look at what the science says and find out which approach is best for your health and weight loss goals.
The Latest Research on Calorie Counting and Intermittent Fasting
In one of the longest trials of its type ever conducted, researchers from the German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ) followed more than 500 people for one year to compare the effects of calorie restriction and intermittent fasting on weight loss. The results were published recently in the journal Cell Metabolism, and they showed that at 12 months the difference between the two groups was less than two kilograms, and statistically meaningless given the margin of error.
The study also found that intermittent fasting was not superior to conventional calorie restriction diets. Scientists from the German study and other research have concluded that intermittent fasting does help with weight loss and may promote health, but it is no better than simply counting calories.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Calorie Counting and Intermittent Fasting
The verdict is in: intermittent fasting is much better for your weight loss and overall health than drastic calorie restriction. However, there are pros and cons to both approaches. Here are a few things to consider when deciding which one is right for you.
- Calorie Counting – With calorie counting, you have to be precise in tracking your caloric intake in order to make sure you are sticking to your diet. This requires discipline and dedication, but it is a reliable way to ensure that you are getting the right amount of calories.
- Intermittent Fasting – With intermittent fasting, you don’t have to count calories. This means that you may be happier and less stressed on this diet, and may find this easier to stick with. However, it is not as reliable for achieving your weight loss goals.
What the Research Says
Experimental and mechanistic research has shown that the timing of food consumption, in the form of time-restricted eating or intermittent fasting, is beneficial for weight loss and general health. It has been found to reduce inflammation, improve insulin sensitivity, and increase energy expenditure. However, intermittent fasting was no more effective than conventional dieting for losing weight. One study reports that alternate day fasting is effective for weight loss, but only if people are able to adhere to the diet.
The Bottom Line
Intermittent fasting is a popular diet, but research shows that it is no better than counting calories for weight loss. Both types of diets can be effective for weight loss if you stick to them, but if you are looking for the most reliable way to lose weight then calorie counting is the best option.
Calorie counting can be hard and requires dedication, but it is the most reliable way to ensure you are getting the right amount of calories. If you prefer to go with the more relaxed approach of intermittent fasting, then you should be aware that you may not get the same results as you would with calorie counting.
No matter which approach you choose, it is important to remember that weight loss is best achieved through a combination of diet and exercise. So focus on eating a balanced diet and getting regular physical activity, and you’ll be well on your way to achieving your weight loss goals.
Does intermittent fasting provide more benefits than a low calorie diet?
The findings indicate that intermittent fasting does not provide an advantage over calorie restriction for weight loss, and is actually not as effective at reducing body fat. The researchers recommend that exercising should be included in an intermittent fasting diet in order to maximize weight loss results.
What is the recommended caloric intake while practicing intermittent fasting?
On two days of the week, you may consume very few calories, usually in the range of 400 to 500. These days are typically nonconsecutive, and are often referred to as fasting days.
Is it possible to do both intermittent fasting and calorie counting together?
A recent study suggests that intermittent fasting combined with a caloric-restrictive diet may be the most effective plan for achieving weight loss and a toned stomach. To help you stay consistent with your exercise program, here are some helpful suggestions.
Promotion of Fasting Books
If you are interested in learning more about the various fasting methods and the benefits of fasting, check out Fasting Books at https://fastingbooks.com. Fasting Books offers a wide range of books and resources on fasting, including intermittent fasting, water fasting, and more. With Fasting Books, you can gain the knowledge and tools you need to achieve your health and weight loss goals through fasting.
