The Claim
In previously obese adults, a modified protein-pacing diet (2 meal replacements per day and 1–2 monthly intermittent fasting days) is associated with significantly less weight regain (6%) and fat mass regain (12%) over 52 weeks compared to a traditional heart-healthy diet.
What the research says
Supports is higher
Support is ahead, but a single strong opposing study can change this.
These are independent scores, not a percentage. Higher-grade studies count more, so a single strong opposing study can outweigh several weaker ones.
Among adults who previously lost weight, those who followed a diet with two meal replacements daily and one or two fasting days per month regained 6% less weight and 12% less fat mass over one year than those who followed a traditional heart-healthy diet.
See the scientific wording
During long-term weight maintenance, a modified protein-pacing diet (2 meal replacements/day, 1–2 monthly intermittent fasting days) is associated with significantly less weight regain (6%) and fat mass regain (12%) compared to a traditional heart-healthy diet over 52 weeks in previously obese adults.
Eating protein in frequent, high-quality doses keeps muscle from breaking down during weight loss and maintenance. More muscle means the body burns more calories at rest. At the same time, eating fewer carbohydrates forces the body to burn fat for fuel instead of sugar. This combination keeps the metabolism high and prevents fat from coming back, even when some weight is regained. Insulin levels stay low because fat stores stay small and muscle stays intact, so the body doesn't store extra fat.
What the research says
1 studyAfter losing weight, people who ate more protein and had two meal replacements a day with a little fasting once a month regained less weight and fat over a year than those who followed standard healthy eating advice.
Score breakdown, mechanism chain, raw evidence, ideal studies needed & 1 supporting studies
Not medical advice. For informational purposes only. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before making health decisions.