RCT: Effects of combined time-restricted eating and high-intensity functional training on body composition and cardiometabolic health in women with obesity – PLOS One

This randomized clinical trial investigated the effects of time-restricted eating (TRE) and high-intensity functional training (HIFT), both separately and in combination, on body composition and cardiometabolic health in inactive women with obesity. Sixty-four participants were assigned to three groups: TRE alone, HIFT alone, and both TRE and HIFT (TRE-HIFT). Over 12 weeks, the TRE-HIFT group showed the most significant improvements in waist and hip circumference, fat mass, total cholesterol, triglyceride levels, insulin sensitivity, and blood glucose levels compared to the other groups. Weight and BMI reductions were also more substantial in the TRE-HIFT group than in the HIFT-only group. Furthermore, while all groups exhibited improvements, those combining both interventions experienced more pronounced changes in cardiometabolic parameters, suggesting the potential of integrated lifestyle interventions for enhancing health outcomes in this population.

Reference (link to free full-text):

Ranya Ameur et al. (2024). Unlocking the power of synergy: High-intensity functional training and early time-restricted eating for transformative changes in body composition and cardiometabolic health in inactive women with obesity. PLOS ONE. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0301369