AACE MENA 2025-From Fat Storage to Fat Burning: Exploring the Role of Fasting in Obesity Treatment

From Fat Storage to Fat Burning: Exploring the Role of Fasting in Obesity Treatment

Video Transcription

Video Summary

The lecture introduces intermittent fasting (IF) as cycles of eating and fasting, highlighting types like time-restricted eating (e.g., 16:8), alternate-day fasting (ADF), and whole-day fasting (e.g., 5:2 diet). IF differs from continuous calorie restriction, and benefits depend greatly on food quality during eating periods. Studies show ADF leads to the greatest weight loss and cardiometabolic improvements, but all fasting types and calorie restriction reduce weight better than unrestricted diets. IF can improve insulin sensitivity, lipid profiles, and inflammation, but may cause hunger, fatigue, and potential muscle loss, necessitating caution for diabetics, pregnant women, and those with eating disorders. Aligning eating with circadian rhythms enhances benefits, while poor food choices and irregular meal timing can increase cardiometabolic risk. Practical use requires personalized approaches to promote adherence, with time-restricted eating favored for lifestyle fit. Combining fasting with pharmacotherapy and exercise offers comprehensive obesity management. Long-term success depends on sustainable lifestyle changes and medical supervision.

Keywords

Intermittent Fasting

Time-Restricted Eating

Alternate-Day Fasting

Weight Loss

Cardiometabolic Health

Circadian Rhythms