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DENVER, CO – A recent clinical trial has revealed that a 4:3 intermittent fasting regimen may lead to slightly greater weight loss compared to daily calorie restriction in adults with overweight or obesity. The study, published in the Annals of Internal Medicine, suggests that intermittent fasting could be a viable dietary approach for weight management.
Researchers from the University of Colorado School of Medicine and their colleagues conducted a 12-month randomized clinical trial involving 165 participants. The participants were divided into two groups: one following a 4:3 intermittent fasting plan and the other adhering to daily calorie restriction.
The 4:3 intermittent fasting group undertook a modified fast, restricting their energy intake by 80% for three non-consecutive days per week. On the remaining four days, they were encouraged to make healthy food choices without strict calorie counting. The daily calorie restriction group followed a daily calorie goal designed to create a 34.3% energy deficit.
Both groups received comprehensive behavioral support, including calorie counting instruction, dietary macronutrient targets (55% carbohydrates, 15% protein, 30% fat), and a free gym membership with encouragement to exercise for at least 300 minutes per week.
After 12 months, the intermittent fasting group showed a –7.6% change in body weight, compared to –5% in the daily calorie restriction group. Notably, 58% of the intermittent fasting group achieved at least 5% weight loss, compared to 47% in the calorie restriction group.
Furthermore, the intermittent fasting group demonstrated more favorable changes in cardiometabolic outcomes, including reductions in systolic blood pressure, total and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol levels, and fasting glucose levels.
“Because fasting does not require participants to focus on counting calories and restricting food intake every single day, it may result in greater adherence,” the authors stated. They suggest that intermittent fasting should be considered as a potentially effective weight-loss strategy alongside other evidence-based dietary approaches.
The researchers highlighted the potential of intermittent fasting as a method that may be easier for some individuals to adhere to, as it doesn’t require daily calorie tracking.
The study, titled “The Effect of 4:3 Intermittent Fasting on Weight Loss at 12 Months,” was published in the Annals of Internal Medicine.
More information: Victoria A. Catenacci et al, The Effect of 4:3 Intermittent Fasting on Weight Loss at 12 Months, Annals of Internal Medicine (2025). DOI: 10.7326/ANNALS-24-01631
Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for general knowledge and informational purposes only, and does not constitute medical advice. It is essential to consult with a qualified healthcare professional before making any changes to your diet or exercise routine, especially if you have any underlying health conditions. Individual results may vary, and the findings of this study may not be applicable to everyone. This article should not be used as a substitute for professional medical guidance.
