New Research Raises Concerns About Extreme intermittent Fasting Schedules
September 14, 2025 – As intermittent fasting gains popularity, a growing trend towards increasingly restrictive eating schedules is raising concerns among health experts. While some individuals experiment with eight-hour eating windows,others are pushing to extremes,limiting themselves to a single meal a day for multiple days each week. Tho, emerging research suggests these more drastic approaches may carry notable health risks, particularly concerning cardiovascular health.
There isn’t much evidence to suggest that this diet is particularly healthy, but there is some research that has shown intermittent fasting to be linked to cardiovascular issues. One study of 20,000 people found that those who followed intermittent fasting had a 91% higher risk of death from cardiovascular disease, according to a report from the american heart association Newsroom. Johns Hopkins Medicine also advises against intentional regular fasting for individuals under 18, those who are pregnant or breastfeeding, people with Type 1 diabetes, or those with a history of eating disorders.
“For some people,intermittent fasting helps them stay in a calorie deficit simply by allowing for less opportunity to eat,” registered dietitian Jamie Nadeau of The Balanced Nutritionist previously told USA TODAY. “But research hasn’t proven it to be any more effective than traditional lifestyle and diet changes.”
What’s the Healthiest Eating Schedule?
So if increasingly restrictive intermittent fasting isn’t the answer, what is? Experts say there’s no universal solution. The optimal eating schedule varies substantially from person to person.
“The strongest research shows that you can improve your health by eating a balanced diet with fruits, veggies, whole grains, lean proteins and healthy fats, along with staying active and engaging in healthy lifestyle choices,” Nadeau said. “I recommend focusing on overall balanced meals with adequate protein and fiber, practicing eating mindfully and honing in on hunger and fullness.”
Nutrition professionals generally advocate for simplicity when it comes to meal timing. The key is to eat when you feel hungry and ensure each meal or snack provides a well-rounded nutritional profile to promote satiety and sustained energy.
“Restrictive dieting is really unnecessary and usually backfires for most people,” Nadeau explained. “Not only do most people gain weight back after the diet becomes unsustainable, but many end up with disordered behaviors around food.… It often leaves you feeling like something is wrong with you or that you lack willpower, when really it’s the diet setting you up to fail.”
Related: What is intermittent fasting? The diet plan loved by Jennifer Aniston, Jimmy Kimmel and more. (https://www.usatoday.com/story/life/health-wellness/2024/06/12/what-is-intermittent-fasting/73677228007/)
