Nutrition Foundation

Time restricted eating / Intermittent fasting

Time restricted eating, or TRE, is a concept that has become increasingly popular. It is also known as intermittent-fasting.

The purpose of TRE is to give the body a longer period when there is no fuel coming in from consumed food. When food has not been eaten for a few hours the body’s insulin level will fall. When insulin falls the body can start to burn some of its own stored fat and sugar. This can help to improve insulin resistance.

There are a range of TRE approaches that people may take. Each can be adapted to suit individual preferences and daily activities.

All food is eaten in an 8-hour window, and no calorie containing food is eaten over a 16-hour period.

All food is eaten in a 6-hour window, and no calorie containing food is eaten over an 18-hour period.

All food is eaten in a 4-hour window, and no calorie containing food is eaten over a 20-hour period.

All food for the day is eaten at a single meal, and no calorie containing food is eaten outside of this time.

• Review your daily routine. What pattern of TRE would suit you best?
• Be careful about eating a large meal just before bed as this can impact on sleep quality.