Gut microbiota, metabolic responses, and weight management improve in response to protein stimulation with intermittent fasting compared to continuous caloric restriction.
- People who followed intermittent fasting and included protein at specific meals showed reduced symptoms of gastrointestinal problems.
- They also showed an increase in beneficial gut bacteria (Christensenellaceae family), which are associated with better fat oxidation and metabolic health.
- According to the authors, these data can inform future recommendations for gut microbiota-focused nutrition.
Intermittent fasting involves alternating between periods of fasting and short periods of eating. Combining this eating pattern with a protein diet is beneficial for gut health and weight management. This is what scientists from Arizona State University (USA) have revealed in work published in the journal Nature Communications.
Intermittent fasting and protein intake increase beneficial gut bacteria
For the study, the researchers compared the effects of two low-calorie dietary interventions. They followed 41 people, including 27 women and 14 men, who were overweight or obese for eight weeks. Participants were divided into two groups: one following intermittent fasting and a protein-boosting diet (involving protein intake at specific meals), and the other adhering to a heart-healthy, calorie-restricted diet. During the experiment, the team assessed changes in weight, gut microbiota, cytokines, short-chain fatty acids (metabolites derived from dietary fiber, important for regulating energy balance), and blood metabolites.
According to the results, participants following intermittent fasting and the protein-boosted diet experienced a significant reduction in gut symptoms and an increase in beneficial gut bacteria, particularly those from the Christensenellaceae family. These microorganisms are associated with improved fat oxidation and metabolic health. In contrast, the calorie-restricted group showed an increase in metabolites linked to longevity pathways.
Higher Weight Loss by Combining Intermittent Fasting and Protein Diet
Although both groups had similar weekly energy intake, the intermittent fasting and protein boost group experienced greater weight loss and fat reduction, with an average loss of 8.81% of their initial body weight. In comparison, volunteers on the low-calorie diet lost an average of 5.4% of their body weight. Additionally, intermittent fasting and protein intake reduced overall fat mass, including belly fat and deep abdominal fat.
“Although further research is needed, these findings offer a promising avenue for creating effective dietary interventions against obesity and related metabolic disorders,” concluded authors.