Evaluating the Impact of Time-Restricted Eating on Metabolic and Cardiovascular Outcomes: A Systematic Review with Community-Based Insights

Introduction

With the growing interest in non-pharmacologic approaches to cardiometabolic disease prevention, it is increasingly important to evaluate the role of lifestyle interventions such as intermittent fasting (IF). Cardiovascular disease (CVD) remains a leading cause of morbidity and mortality globally, and emerging research suggests that dietary timing, specifically time-restricted eating (TRE) may play a role in mitigating risk factors such as insulin resistance, obesity, and systemic inflammation. However, inconsistencies in current literature regarding the efficacy of various TRE protocols have created ambiguity about its true clinical utility.

Fasting regimens such as 16:8, 18:6, 14:10, and 24-hour intervals have been proposed to improve glycemic control and reduce CVD risk through mechanisms including enhanced insulin sensitivity and modulation of inflammatory pathways. While preliminary data are promising, studies differ widely in protocol design, participant characteristics, and outcome measures, underscoring the need for standardized evaluation.

Methods

To address this gap, we conducted a systematic review of primary human studies published in the past 10 years that assessed the impact of TRE on metabolic and cardiovascular outcomes in adults. Inclusion criteria limited studies to participants over 18 years with a BMI <45 kg/m². Analyses focused on glycemic markers, weight loss, insulin sensitivity and lipid profiles.

For example, Lowe et al (2020) found that 16:8 TRE protocols resulted in modest weight loss (∼0.94 kg over 12 weeks) and improvements in metabolic health. While evidence for 18:6 and 14:10 fasting remains limited, outcomes suggest potential parity in efficacy with longer fasts. Extended fasts, such as 24-hour intervals, demonstrated increased insulin sensitivity, though weight changes varied (Muñoz et al., 2020). Outcomes also appeared influenced by participant sex and baseline metabolic health, suggesting a need for individualized application.

Complementing the literature review, data from the MediRootz holistic diabetes prevention program, led by Dr. Maurice Hinson, revealed an average 5-pound weight loss over 7 weeks among participants practicing TRE. Greater benefit was observed in those who also incorporated complementary therapies. This supports the idea that a biopsychosocial model integrating culturally relevant, natural interventions such as fasting, plant-based nutrition, and community support may be especially effective in underrepresented populations such as African Americans disproportionately affected by cardiometabolic disease.

Conclusion

Together, these findings suggest that IF, particularly when personalized and embedded in holistic care models like MediRootz, holds promise as a scalable, culturally adaptable tool for CVD prevention.