Comparing Intermittent Fasting and Mediterranean Diet for Obesity

Kamil Dağcılar120 enrolled

Overview

Purpose: This study aimed to evaluate and compare the effects of intermittent fasting (IF) and the Mediterranean diet (MD) on weight loss in obese adults. Methods: A total of 120 adults diagnosed with obesity were enrolled. Baseline data on physical activity and dietary intake were collected through structured interviews. Participants were randomly assigned to two groups for a 4-week intervention. The IF group followed a time-restricted eating schedule (16:8), while the MD group followed a structured plan of three main meals and three snacks daily. Both diets included a 500-calorie daily reduction from estimated energy needs. Anthropometric measurements were recorded at baseline and week 4.

Study Type

INTERVENTIONAL

Allocation

RANDOMIZED

Purpose

TREATMENT

Masking

NONE

Enrollment

120

Conditions

Weight Loss

Interventions

Participants follow a time-restricted eating pattern for 4 weeks, consuming all meals within an 8-hour eating window (from 1:00 PM to 9:00 PM) and fasting for the remaining 16 hours each day. During the feeding window, they consume two main meals and one snack based on ad libitum intake, without specific calorie restriction. Dietary guidance is provided at the start and mid-point of the protocol by a registered dietitian.

Mediterranean DietOTHER

Participants follow a 4-week Mediterranean diet protocol that is adapted from the PREDIMED criteria and the MedDietScore index. The diet emphasizes high consumption of vegetables, fruits, legumes, whole grains, nuts, and olive oil; moderate intake of fish and poultry; and limited consumption of red meat, dairy products, and sweets. A registered dietitian provides dietary counseling sessions at the beginning and midway through the intervention.

Eligibility

Sex: ALLMin age: 20 YearsMax age: 55 Years

Medical Language ↔ Plain English

Inclusion Criteria: * BMI ≥ 30 kg/m² * absence of chronic diseases * no regular use of medications * non smokers * non alcohol users * not pregnant or breastfeeding * no history of bariatric surgery * no significant weight fluctuations (±5 kg) in the past 6 months * no pregnancy plans during the study period Exclusion Criteria: * BMI \< 30 kg/m² * Presence of any diagnosed chronic disease (e.g., diabetes, cardiovascular disease, thyroid disorders, renal or hepatic disease) * Regular use of medications that could affect metabolism, appetite, or body weight * Smoking or alcohol consumption * Pregnancy or breastfeeding during the study period * History of bariatric or other weight-related surgical procedures * Significant weight changes (gain or loss ≥5 kg) within the past 6 months * Planning pregnancy during the study period * Inability or unwillingness to comply with dietary intervention and follow-up requirements

Outcomes

Primary Outcomes

Body weight (kg)

Body weight is measured with using the TANITA BC-418 body composition analyzer. Participants are weighed barefoot, in light clothing, and measurements are recorded in kilograms.

Time frame: Baseline and Week 4

Secondary Outcomes

Body Mass Index (kg/m²)

BMI is computed as weight in kilograms divided by height in meters squared (kg/m²)