Intermittent fasting aids weight loss but may cut muscle in seniors

Intermittent fasting, a dietary pattern that limits the daily eating window to 8‑12 hours or includes occasional low‑calorie days, has become popular for weight loss. Experts note that while the approach can lower body weight and body‑mass index across age groups, a review of 28 randomized trials involving 1,833 participants found the method also reduces fat‑free mass, which includes muscle tissue. The loss of muscle is a particular concern for adults over 60, as it can exacerbate age‑related sarcopenia, increase frailty, and raise the risk of falls.

For older adults, the study recommends that fasting be undertaken only with medical supervision, adequate protein intake, and strength‑training exercise to preserve muscle. The review also reported metabolic benefits such as lower triglycerides, reduced systolic blood pressure, and improved insulin sensitivity, but highlighted that the practice is unsuitable for children, pregnant people, individuals with type‑1 diabetes, or those with liver, kidney or severe chronic illnesses. Health professionals advise cautious use of intermittent fasting, especially for seniors, to balance weight loss with muscle preservation.