Researchers from King’s College London have explored intermittent fasting and found that it can positively influence mood, boost daily energy, and cut feelings of hunger. The findings were reported by the university’s study team and circulated through their official channels, underscoring a growing interest in how eating patterns affect wellbeing.
The study enrolled a sizable group of participants to test how a structured fasting schedule might impact daily experience. In the initial week, participants followed their usual eating routines. After this baseline phase, they adopted a daily fasting window of ten hours, with the remaining fourteen hours dedicated to abstaining from calories. Each day, participants logged their meal times, energy levels, mood, and hunger in a mobile app built for the project. Researchers then analyzed the collected data to understand how a consistent ten-hour eating window could influence overall wellbeing. The results showed that limiting food intake to a defined period can coincide with improved mood and reduced hunger, contributing to a more balanced daily experience for many individuals.
Among those who fully adhered to the intermittent fasting plan, a meaningful portion reported modest weight loss over a span of two to sixteen weeks. This aligns with other research suggesting that structured mealtimes may play a role in reducing the risk factors associated with type 2 diabetes for people who are at elevated risk. The pattern of eating, rather than the specific foods alone, appears to be a factor in how the body processes energy and how comfortable one feels during the day. The study also points to potential benefits in maintaining energy and mood, which can influence daily activity, exercise, and general wellbeing over time.
Experts note that while the findings are encouraging, outcomes can vary based on individual biology, lifestyle, and adherence to the fasting schedule. For some, the ten-hour window may feel natural and sustainable, while for others, adjustments or alternative timing could be more suitable. As with any behavioral change, gradual implementation, listening to one’s body, and consulting with a healthcare professional before starting a new fasting routine are prudent steps. The body’s response to intermittent fasting can evolve, especially for those with underlying health concerns, athletes, or people with demanding schedules. In follow-up work, researchers plan to examine longer-term effects and to identify which populations benefit most from this approach, while exploring how fasting interacts with sleep quality, stress, and physical activity for a more comprehensive picture of wellbeing benefits.