When people eat only between 8 a.m. and 2 p.m., their bodies burn more fat, especially at night, as shown by a measurable drop in a metabolic marker called npRQ.
Scientific Claim
Early time-restricted feeding decreases the 24-hour nonprotein respiratory quotient (npRQ) by 0.021 ± 0.010 in overweight adults, indicating increased whole-body fat oxidation, particularly during nighttime and fasting periods.
Original Statement
“eTRF decreased the 24-hour nonprotein respiratory quotient (Δ=−0.021±0.010; p=0.05). These differences were driven by a lower npRQ at nighttime (0.729±0.050 vs. 0.778±0.050; Δ=−0.046±0.010; p=0.0007), while sleeping (Δ=−0.031±0.013; p=0.03), and while fasting in the morning (Δ=−0.036±0.014; p=0.02).”
Evidence Quality Assessment
Claim Status
appropriately stated
Study Design Support
Design supports claim
Appropriate Language Strength
definitive
Can make definitive causal claims
Assessment Explanation
The RCT design with direct metabolic measurement via calorimetry supports definitive causal claims. The npRQ change is objectively measured and statistically significant.
Evidence from Studies
Supporting (1)
Early Time-Restricted Feeding Reduces Appetite and Increases Fat Oxidation but Does Not Affect Energy Expenditure in Humans
This study found that eating only between 8 a.m. and 2 p.m. made the body burn more fat, especially at night, which is shown by a small but meaningful drop in a special measurement called npRQ.