Hormonal
Intermittent Energy Restriction (IER) does not provide superior improvements in cardiovascular risk markers (lipids, glucose, insulin, blood pressure) compared to Continuous Energy Restriction (CER) over the long term.
Do not expect IER to give you better blood work (cholesterol, blood sugar) than continuous calorie restriction. Any improvements in these markers are likely due to the weight loss itself, not the fasting pattern. Focus on achieving and maintaining a healthy weight through whichever method you can sustain.
Blood lipid concentrations, glucose, and insulin were not altered by intermittent energy expenditure in values greater than those seen with continuous energy restriction.
Why this rating
Meta-analysis data, but limited by heterogeneity and small sample sizes in individual trials.
Source
Weight-Loss Outcomes: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Intermittent Energy Restriction Trials Lasting a Minimum of 6 Months
Michelle Louise Headland et al. · Nutrients · 2016
DOI 10.3390/nu8060354
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