Intermittent Dieting

Prior research established the 5:2 intermittent diet as effective for weight loss in people with overweight or obesity. The trial hypothesizes that preventing weight gain may require less caloric restriction than inducing weight loss. The 5:2 diet restricts calories to 800 to 1,000 kcal on two days per week. Intermittent diets are described as promoting dietary mindfulness and appetite control that may reduce intake on unrestricted days. The 5:2 diet has been implemented in UK healthcare settings, including among patients with cancer and type 2 diabetes.