Those in the calorie restriction group were asked to reduce their daily calorie intake by about a third. All the participants were encouraged to exercise for at least 300 minutes per week…and received counseling from a registered dietitian.

A randomized clinical trial compared the effects of 4:3 intermittent fasting versus daily caloric restriction on weight loss when combined with comprehensive behavioral support in adults with overweight or obesity.

A diet involving fasting on three nonconsecutive days per week yielded a 6.37 lb greater weight loss after a year than a daily caloric deficit. Three days of intermittent fasting (IMF) each week was a bit better for weight loss than daily caloric restriction (DCR), the DRIFT randomized trial found.