Effects of intermittent fasting on body composition, clinical health markers and memory status in the adult population: a single-blind randomised controlled trial.

Introduction: Despite the popularity and potential protective effects of intermittent fasting (IF) against metabolic disorders, more human trials must be conducted to highlight its effects on human health. Therefore, the present trial aimed to investigate the effect of IF on the body composition, health markers, and memory status of obese and overweight adults.

Methods: A parallel randomised controlled trial was conducted in Lahore, Pakistan, with 30 participants recruited from each of the three arms (regular diet, customised diet, and IF group) with a follow-up period of 12 weeks.

Results: There was no significant difference in the mean percentage change in BMI at the end of the study period (p = 0.55). The IF group exhibited a negative median change (-4.41%) in systolic blood pressure compared with the other two groups (p = 0.014), with no difference among the groups in diastolic blood pressure or blood sugar levels (p > 0.05). The percentage change in waist circumference was more significant in the IF group than in the control group, with a significant improvement in the median percentage change in total cholesterol, LDL, triglyceride, and HDL levels (p < 0.05) as well as in the memory score (p < 0.05).

Conclusion: This study revealed that IF helps improve participants' lipid parameters, systolic blood pressure, and memory status.

Trial registration: The present study is registered at the registry of Clinicaltrials.gov with identity number NCT05521945 and registration date 30/08/22.