Is Intermittent Fasting Less Effective for Women?
Intermittent fasting is a popular, albeit, a different approach to weight loss because it focuses on when you eat instead of what you eat. In addition to helping people lose weight, numerous studies suggest that intermittent fasting is a promising strategy to protect against cancer, diabetes, and cardiovascular diseases. But, like every diet, intermittent fasting works differently for everyone. In particular, a handful of studies have found that it affects female participants differently compared to male participants.
Intermittent fasting may be less beneficial for women
Some research suggests intermittent fasting may be less effective for women — but it’s worth noting existing studies are small and larger studies are needed to confirm results. For example, in a 2005 study of eight men and eight women, researchers analyzed the effects of intermittent fasting on insulin sensitivity and glucose response. After three weeks, men saw an improvement in insulin sensitivity while their glucose response remained unchanged. Meanwhile, women saw no change in insulin sensitivity, and their glucose tolerance actually declined. Therefore, fasting may be less effective in women for weight loss and blood sugar management than men.
Excerpted from Insider
