Energy balance

Intermittent fasting (IF) regimens improve body composition and cardiometabolic risk factors compared to unrestricted eating, primarily through energy deficit, but do not provide additional benefits over continuous daily caloric restriction when energy balance is matched.

Intermittent fasting works for weight loss and heart health because it helps you eat fewer calories, not because of some magic metabolic switch. If you eat the same amount of calories as someone who eats continuously, you won't get extra benefits from fasting. Use IF if it helps you stick to your calorie goals more easily.