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Assessment of the Metabolic Effects of Isocaloric 2:1 Intermittent Fasting in Mice

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Stable cognitive performance while adapting to intermittent fasting: A randomised controlled trial.

Christoph Bamberg¹, Julia Reichenberger^1,2, Jens Blechert¹

¹Paris Lodron University of Salzburg, Austria.

Journal of Health Psychology

|July 23, 2025

Summary

Intermittent fasting (IF) did not impair cognitive performance or mood in a 10-day study. This popular eating pattern may be a safe option for health and weight management.

Keywords:

ambulatory assessment concentration emotion intermittent fasting time restricted eating

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Area of Science:

Nutrition Science
Cognitive Psychology
Behavioral Medicine

Background:

Intermittent fasting (IF) is widely adopted for weight loss and health benefits.
Concerns exist regarding potential negative impacts of IF on cognition and mood.
Previous research on IF side effects has primarily focused on short-term exposures.

Purpose of the Study:

To investigate the effects of adapting to a 16-hour breakfast-skipping intermittent fasting regimen over 10 days on cognitive performance and mood.
To determine if sustained IF adherence leads to cognitive or mood deficits.

Main Methods:

A randomized, waitlist-controlled trial involving 122 participants.
Online assessment of cognitive performance using standardized psychological tasks.
Twice-daily smartphone questionnaires measuring subjective concentration and mood.

Main Results:

No significant differences in cognitive performance or mood were observed between the IF group and the control group.
Participants reported reduced concentration in the fasting period before noon compared to the post-fasting period.
Bayesian multi-level modeling confirmed the absence of widespread cognitive or mood deficits.

Conclusions:

Adapting to a 16-hour intermittent fasting schedule for 10 days does not appear to negatively affect cognitive performance or overall mood.
The temporary dip in concentration before noon during fasting is a manageable effect.
These findings alleviate concerns about cognitive and mood impairments, supporting IF as a viable health intervention.