A recent scientific study revealed that the intermittent fasting method known as “Alternate-Day Fasting” (ADF) can help reduce weight and body fat, but it may also lead to loss of muscle mass.
اضافة اعلان
Globally, approximately 44% of adults are overweight and 16% are obese, prompting the development of various weight-loss strategies. Intermittent fasting has gained attention due to its potential benefits for metabolic and cardiovascular health and fat reduction.
The ADF method alternates between fasting and eating periods, with fasting lasting 16–20 hours daily. While there are several intermittent fasting approaches, the study focused on short-term ADF and examined whether protein supplementation could help preserve muscle mass during weight loss.
Published in the journal Nutrients, the study found that low-dose protein supplements on fasting days do not prevent muscle loss.
The Singapore-based trial involved 37 overweight Asian men aged 21–35, divided into two groups: one followed ADF only, and the other consumed protein supplements on fasting days. On fasting days, participants were allowed a single small meal of 400–600 calories.
After four weeks, both groups showed significant reductions in weight and fat mass, but researchers also observed a decline in muscle mass in all participants, including those who consumed protein. This outcome was attributed to protein intake being below recommended daily levels, and the total protein difference between the groups was minimal.
No significant long-term changes were noted in blood pressure or blood sugar levels.
Researchers recommend further studies to explore the combined effect of protein intake and resistance training to help preserve muscle mass during weight-loss regimens.
