Sui social media has been described as the definitive solution to losing weight. Videos, testimonials, before and after. Yet when you look at the scientific data, the picture changes. According to a new review of Cochrane Collaborationone of the most authoritative institutions in the evaluation of medical evidence, the Intermittent fasting does not offer superior benefits over traditional diets. What about weight loss? Modest: less than 5% of the initial weight over a year. A result that invites us to take a step back from the widespread enthusiasm.
What is intermittent fasting, according to the Cochrane review
In the document, the authors explain that “intermittent fasting is a relatively new approach to weight loss” and consists ofalternating periods of food restriction with times when you eat normally.
Among the most common methods are mentioned:
- feeding in a limited time window each day (time-restricted eating)
- fasting on certain days of the week
- the alternation between days of normal eating and days of strong calorie reduction
The researchers themselves point out that, although some studies have highlighted possible benefits on biological and metabolic parameters, it was not clear whether this scheme was really superior to a conventional diet in overweight or obese people.
As the experts of the Cochrane Collaboration point out, the available evidence on intermittent fasting does not justify the enthusiasm amplified by social media (Getty Images).
The analysis of 22 studies on almost 2000 people
The research team jointly analyzed 22 randomized clinical trials involving nearly 2,000 adults with overweight or obesity. The result was defined as “disappointing” by the authors themselves: the Average weight loss after one year was modestless than 5% of the initial weight, e no clinically relevant differences emerged compared to traditional diets.
This was made clear Luis Garegnani, first signatory of the study, who in a note declared: «Intermittent fasting does not appear to work for overweight or obese adults trying to lose weight. It may be a reasonable option for some people, but the current evidence does not justify the enthusiasm we see on social media.”
Because the enthusiasm on social media does not coincide with the data
Intermittent fasting has also had a strong diffusion because is perceived as simpler: you don’t count calories, but you adjust the times.
However, the Cochrane review suggests that, in the long term, what affects weight loss is mainly the overall calorie balanceregardless of how meals are distributed throughout the day or week.
What does it mean for those who want to lose weight
The message that emerges is not that intermittent fasting is “useless,” but that noon represents a superior solution to traditional strategies. It may work for some people, especially if it fits their lifestyle better. But it is not a metabolic shortcut or a miracle formula. As the experts of the Cochrane Collaboration point out, the available evidence does not justify the enthusiasm amplified by social media. There Choosing a diet should be based on sustainability, customization and medical indicationsnot on the fashions of the moment.
