Time-Restricted Eating
Also known as: TRE, Intermittent Fasting, Eating Window
An eating pattern where food consumption is limited to a specific time window each day, typically 8-12 hours.
FULL EXPLANATION
Time-restricted eating (TRE) involves limiting all food intake to a set window of time each day, typically 6-12 hours, while fasting for the remaining hours. Common patterns include 16:8 (16 hours fasting, 8 hours eating) and 14:10.
TRE works with natural circadian rhythms and may improve metabolic health through mechanisms including enhanced autophagy, improved insulin sensitivity, and reduced inflammation. Benefits may be enhanced when the eating window aligns with daylight hours.
WHY IT MATTERS
TRE may support weight management, metabolic health, and longevity. It provides structure for eating without requiring calorie counting.
HOW TO IMPROVE
Start with a 12-hour eating window and gradually reduce. Align eating window with daylight when possible. Stay hydrated during fasting periods. Avoid late-night eating.
NORMAL RANGES
Common protocols: 16:8, 14:10, 12:12 (fasting:eating hours). Earlier eating windows may provide additional metabolic benefits.
RELATED TERMS
Circadian Rhythm
The roughly 24-hour internal biological clock that regulates sleep-wake cycles, hormone release, and other physiological processes.
mTOR
A cellular signaling pathway that regulates growth and metabolism, with implications for aging and disease.
Insulin Sensitivity
How effectively your cells respond to insulin to take up glucose from the bloodstream.
Autophagy
A cellular process where damaged components are recycled, playing a key role in cellular health and longevity.
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