Overview
We aim to determine the effect of combined isocaloric time restricted eating and meal timing on metabolic health, liver fat, functional brain networks, inflammation, and sleep pattern/quality in subjects with obesity and insulin resistance.
Description
Obesity is an alarming global health issue, with increasing prevalence. Obesity leads to a vast array of disorders, including dyslipidemia, the accumulation of intrahepatic triglycerides (IHTG), multiorgan insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes mellitus. In addition, disruption of the circadian rhythm (circadian misalignment), which is associated with irregular eating schedules, is an important risk factor for the development of obesity, IHTG and type 2 diabetes mellitus. Time restricted eating (TRE) is a form of intermittent fasting, in which the daily eating period is restricted. The beneficial effect of this type of diet might relate to adequate synchronization of food intake and fasting to the internal rhythm of the circadian tissue clocks, improving metabolic handling of nutrients and metabolic flexibility.
Eligibility
Inclusion Criteria:
- Ability to provide informed consent;
- BMI > 30kg/m^2;
- Insulin resistance, as defined by fasting plasma insulin > 62 pmol/L and/or prediabetes, as defined by fasting plasma glucose > 5.3 and < 7.0 mmol/L;
- Stable weight for 3 months prior to study inclusion
- For women, 1 year after last menstrual cycle
Exclusion Criteria:
- Use of any medication, except for those related to treatment of metabolic syndrome;
- Any medical condition interfering with study outcomes or design;
- History of any psychiatric disorder, including eating disorders;
- Performing shift work
- Performing intensive sports (>3 hours/week);
- Smoking;
- Drugs abuse or alcohol abuse (>3 units/day);
- Contraindication for MRI;
- Known lactose/gluten intolerance;
- Known soy, egg, milk or peanut allergy;
- Childhood onset of obesity