Cochrane Review Questions Weight Loss Benefits of Intermittent Fasting

Intermittent fasting may be popular, but new evidence suggests it is not more effective for weight loss than traditional diet advice. A recent review by Cochrane analyzed 22 randomized clinical trials involving 1,995 adults across multiple regions and found no clinically meaningful difference in weight loss between fasting approaches and standard dietary guidance.

The findings come amid rising global obesity rates. According to the World Health Organization, adult obesity has more than tripled since 1975, with 890 million people living with obesity in 2022.

Lead author said the current evidence does not support the widespread enthusiasm surrounding fasting trends. Senior author added that limited long-term data and inconsistent reporting make broad recommendations difficult. Researchers emphasize that weight management strategies should be tailored individually rather than relying on fasting as a breakthrough solution.

20-02-2026