Time-restricted eating may help prevent type 2 diabetes

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Key Takeaways

Time-restricted eating (TRE) can potentially lead to weight loss and improved metabolic health.

A study from the University of Adelaide found that TRE improved glucose tolerance in men at risk for type 2 diabetes.

Other studies suggest TRE may improve cognitive function and metabolic health, even in the context of a high-fat diet.

More research is needed to fully understand the potential benefits and risks of TRE.

Study Details

Time-restricted eating is a type of intermittent fasting where individuals limit their eating to a specific window each day, typically 8-12 hours.

This eating pattern has gained popularity due to its potential health benefits, such as weight loss, lower blood pressure, improved insulin sensitivity, and reduced inflammation.

In a recent study conducted at the University of Adelaide, 15 middle-aged men at risk for type 2 diabetes underwent glucose tolerance tests before and during two 7-day TRE periods.

The men wore continuous glucose monitors and took meals in either an early or late time-restricted window.

Researchers found that TRE improved glucose tolerance, suggesting it could potentially prevent or manage type 2 diabetes.

Other Research

Other research has supported these findings. A study in the journal Cell Metabolism found that TRE improved metabolic health in mice fed a high-fat diet, indicating potential benefits for managing obesity and type 2 diabetes.

In the journal Cell Reports, another study showed that mice following a TRE eating pattern exhibited better memory and learning abilities, possibly due to increased production of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), a protein crucial for the growth and maintenance of nerve cells.

Precautions and Future Research

Despite promising results, more research is necessary to fully understand the potential benefits and risks of TRE.

It may not be suitable for everyone, especially those with certain health conditions, pregnant, or breastfeeding individuals.

Before starting a TRE pattern, it is crucial to consult with a healthcare professional and ensure adequate nutrient and calorie intake during the eating window.

If you care about diabetes, please read studies about new way to achieve type 2 diabetes remission, and one avocado a day keeps diabetes at bay.

For more information about health, please see recent studies that blueberries strongly benefit people with metabolic syndrome, and results showing eggs in a plant-based diet may benefit people with type 2 diabetes.

The research is published in Obesity and was conducted by Amy T Hutchison et al.

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