Time-restricted feeding can increase food-related impulsivity: a randomized controlled trial

Area of Science:

• Behavioral science
• Nutritional science
• Metabolic health

Background:

• Time-restricted feeding (TRF) shows promise for metabolic health.
• Limited research exists on the behavioral effects of TRF.
• This study addresses the impact of TRF on impulsivity.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the effects of time-restricted feeding on impulsivity in adults.
• To assess changes in behavioral impulsivity following a TRF intervention.

Main Methods:

• A randomized controlled trial involving 30 adults (aged 25-41).
• Participants followed a 4-week TRF regimen (feeding time ≤ 8 hours/day) or served as controls.
• Impulsivity was measured using the Barratt Impulsiveness Scale (BIS-11) and the Go/NoGo task.

Main Results:

• The TRF group showed a significant increase in BIS-11 scores (p=0.02).
• Inhibitory control, assessed by the Go/NoGo task, was impaired in the TRF group (p<0.01).
• No significant changes in impulsivity were observed in the control group.

Conclusions:

• Time-restricted feeding may increase impulsivity in adults.
• TRF intervention can lead to impaired inhibitory control.
• Further research is needed to understand the behavioral consequences of TRF.