Effect of Time-Restricted Feeding on Anthropometric, Metabolic, and Fitness Parameters: A Systematic Review

Abstract

Time restricted feeding (TRF) as a form of intermittent fasting (IF) has gained popularity because its ability to reduce body mass (BM) without an emphasis on caloric restriction. However, how this dietary protocol may affect health, fitness, and performance in a relatively healthy cohort remains less clear. The purpose of this article was to systematically review the current literature concerning the effect of TRF on anthropometric, metabolic, and fitness parameters in normal-weight adults and overweight and obese individuals. A systematic search of English literature was conducted through databases including PubMed, CINAHL, and Google Scholar. The search was facilitated by using various combinations of key words related to nutritional interventions, i.e., IF and TRF, and outcomes of interest, i.e., BM, body composition, glucose, insulin, lipid, fitness, and performance. The article selection was made based on the inclusion and exclusion criteria concerning the participants’ characteristics, study design, intervention protocols, and targeted dependent variables. Twenty-three full-text longitudinal randomized and nonrandomized controlled studies were selected for this review. Our analysis indicates that TRF can reduce BM and improve nutrient metabolism in both normal- and over-weight individuals. TRF does not appear to alter protein synthesis and fat-free mass nor hamper aerobic fitness and muscular performance among physically active individuals including athletes. In conclusion, TRF as a more easily adaptable form of IF is a promising dietary approach to improving body composition and metabolic health while maintaining fitness and muscular function. However, more research is needed before this dietary protocol can be fully recommended for athletes especially those competing in sports that demand strength and power.

Key teaching points and nutritional relevance

• Time-restricted feeding (TRF) differs from other fasting protocols due to its emphasis on restricting eating window rather than caloric intake and can be more easily adopted by simply skipping a meal.

• Its deemphasis on caloric restriction appeals to many young and physically active individuals wanting to optimize body composition but needing sufficient energy to support their physical training and daily activity.

• Much of what is known regarding the impact of TRF on fitness and athletic performance was derived from studies that use the Ramadan fasting protocol, which differs from TRF in terms of protocol duration and feeding schedule.

• This review concludes that TRF is a promising dietary approach to improving body composition and metabolic health while maintaining fitness and muscular function in both normal- and over-weight individuals.

• Due to limited evidence concerning TRF and athletic performance, more research is needed before this dietary protocol can be fully recommended for athletes especially those competing in sports that demand strength and power.

Keywords:

• Intermittent fasting
• body composition
• metabolic health
• physical fitness
• muscular function

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the authors.