On social media, intermittent fasting is often described as a foolproof trick for quickly slimming down. This method, which organizes eating by alternating phases of meals and abstinence, enjoys wide online visibility. But what is the truth of the matter?
A systematic review published in the
Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews examined 22 clinical trials involving nearly 2,000 overweight adults. The scientists compared techniques like alternate-day fasting or time-restricted eating to standard nutritional advice. Their observations indicate that intermittent fasting does not lead to a more pronounced weight reduction over a period of up to twelve months.
The researchers urge caution in light of the significant enthusiasm seen online. Luis Garegnani, lead author of the study, specifies that intermittent fasting may be suitable for some individuals, but current evidence does not support the enthusiasm found on social media. He also notes that results might vary based on personal criteria like age or sex, which necessitates individualized care.
Eva Madrid, co-author, thus calls for caution in large-scale recommendations. Practitioners must tailor their advice based on each patient's profile. This concern is all the more important as the studies predominantly included Caucasian individuals living in wealthy countries, while the prevalence of obesity is rising sharply in less advantaged areas.
Cochrane Reviews
Cochrane Reviews are analyses that aggregate the findings of numerous studies on a health question. They apply a standardized procedure to assess the strength of evidence, thereby helping to separate established facts from claims. This process includes the collection and examination of data from randomized clinical trials, often considered the gold standard for medical evidence.
Regarding intermittent fasting, the Cochrane review scrutinized 22 trials, thus providing more reliable insights than a single study. By comparing different methods, it offers an objective overall view, limiting the risks of bias. This helps professionals and patients to opt for decisions based on aggregated knowledge.
The value of these publications lies in their independence. They are regularly updated to include new findings. In the field of nutrition, where trends can influence behavior, they act as a bulwark against misinformation.