Scientists from the Salk Institute for Biological Studies and collaborating institutions report that time-restricted eating (TRE) may help prevent and manage a wide range of metabolic diseases.
Time-restricted feeding in animals and time-restricted eating in humans are relatively new behavioral strategies that build on the important role of the body’s internal clock—known as the circadian rhythm—in regulating metabolism.
Instead of restricting calories, TRE focuses on when people eat, typically allowing food intake during an 8–10 hour window each day.
Unlike traditional calorie-restricted diets or intermittent fasting routines designed mainly for weight loss, many of the health benefits of TRE appear to occur even without major changes in body weight. Research has shown that time-restricted eating can:
- Reduce body weight
- Improve blood sugar control
- Enhance metabolic flexibility
- Lower blood cholesterol and blood pressure
- Improve gut health
- Support heart and metabolic function
In this review, researchers explored the origins of TRE and the science behind its benefits. The concept began with studies showing that chronic disruption of circadian rhythms—such as through shift work, irregular sleep, or late-night eating—raises the risk of chronic metabolic diseases.
While circadian rhythms are commonly associated with the sleep–wake cycle controlled by the brain, newer evidence suggests that consistent daily eating patterns also help maintain strong, healthy circadian rhythms throughout the body. Animal studies provide solid proof of this connection and have identified several biological mechanisms that might explain the benefits of TRE.
Human studies have also produced promising results, showing that TRE may reduce the risk of obesity, type 2 diabetes, and heart disease. Other research highlights that having a long, consistent overnight fast—a pattern similar to TRE—may significantly lower the risk of chronic diseases.
The researchers conclude that although early findings are encouraging, more well-designed clinical studies are needed to understand how TRE can best be used—either alone or alongside other lifestyle interventions—to prevent and manage chronic metabolic conditions.
The review was published in Endocrine Reviews and led by Emily N. C. Manoogian and colleagues.
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