For more than ten years, experts have found that following a moderate calorie restriction diet can help people manage their weight and reduce their chances of developing type 2 diabetes. Now, researchers are exploring how the timing of meals and fasting periods can make these dietary interventions even more effective in diabetes management.

      A randomized controlled trial published in 'Nature Medicine' compared different eating strategies to see which one works best for improving blood sugar levels in adults at higher risk of developing type 2 diabetes. The study involved 209 adults, 58 ± 10 years, and 34.8 ± 4.7 kgm−2 who were split into three groups: one group followed intermittent fasting plus early time-restricted eating (iTRE), another group followed calorie restriction (CR), and the third group received standard care (a weight loss booklet).

      In this open-label, parallel group, three-arm randomized controlled trial, for six months, the participants in the iTRE and CR groups received nutritional support while following their respective eating plans. After the initial six months, there was an additional 12-month follow-up period.

      The primary outcome was change in glucose area under the curve in response to a mixed-meal tolerance test at month 6 in iTRE versus CR.

      The results showed that the iTRE group had a greater improvement in blood sugar control compared to the CR group at the six-month mark. However, this difference was not sustained after 18 months. During the study, participants reported some mild side effects, such as temporary fatigue, but these resolved over time. Fatigue was more commonly reported in the iTRE group compared to the CR and standard care groups, while constipation and headache were more common in both the iTRE and CR groups compared to standard care.

      These findings suggest that adopting a simple eating schedule, such as intermittent fasting plus early time-restricted eating can help improve blood sugar control in people at risk of type 2 diabetes. Although more research is needed to fully understand the long-term effects, these observations encourage healthcare professionals to consider innovative approaches for improving the quality of life for individuals with diabetes.