Please note: This trial has finished recruiting and is not accepting new participants.

Research Center: Mary MacKillop Institute for Health Research at the Australian Catholic University
Location: Level 1, Room 1.03, Centre for Exercise and Nutrition, Daniel Mannix Building, 17 Young Street or 8-18 Brunswick Street, Fitzroy 3065
Lead Researcher: Dr Imre Kouw
Ethics Committee: This study has been reviewed by the ACU Human Research Ethics Committee (2018-291HC)

Background

Many people choose to follow a diet in order to lose weight. Any body weight lost is a combination of both fat and muscle tissue. As the loss of muscle mass can lead to unfavourable consequences such as reduced strength and metabolic rate, determining ways to preserve muscle mass is important.

This study focuses on intermittent fasting, which is a dietary strategy where people abstain from eating for time periods longer than the typical overnight fast (when you sleep). Popular types of these intermittent fasting methods include alternate day fasting (ADF) and time restricted feeding (TRF). Alternate day intermittent fasting (ADF) involves alternating eating days with fasting days. Time restricted feeding (TRF) is when the time frame of which food is consumed throughout the day is limited to 8 hours or less, without reducing total energy intake.

The effect of intermittent fasting techniques have not been thoroughly examined in humans. Therefore, this study is investigating the changes in muscle mass and the rate as which those on these diets can build muscle when compared to other energy restriction diets or a controlled diet.

This study seeks men 35-55 years who are overweight. Participants are required to attend 6 study visits at the research site over a 2 week period and will be remunerated for associated costs in participating in this study.

Why Participate?

• You may learn about your own dietary needs.
• You will be reimbursed for your time and commitment to the study.
• You will receive a detailed body composition and blood analysis.
• You will receive 13 days’ worth of free food and individual report of your health as it relates to the study.
• You will be helping to advance medical research.

Your Rights

• If you decide to participate in the study and later feel that you no longer wish to be part of it, you may withdraw at any time.
• Your records relating to this study and any other information received will be kept strictly confidential, except as required by the law.
• Qualified health professionals will monitor your health as it relates to the study.

Who Can Participate?

• Overweight men aged 35 – 55 years old who do not regularly exercise
• Regularly eat breakfast (i.e. food not just coffee) on at least 5 of 7 days a week
• Not on a strict diet
• Not a shift worker
• Not a smoker
• Able to attend 6 study visits at the research site over approximately 2 weeks
• Willing to undergo 2 muscle biopsies throughout study duration, multiple blood draws and saliva collection