Time-restricted eating (TRE) is a type of intermittent fasting where you limit your daily eating window to a specific number of hours—commonly 8–12 hours. Studies suggest that TRE may improve insulin sensitivity, reduce inflammation, and promote fat loss.
For instance, a 2018 study published in Cell Metabolism found that participants who limited food intake to a 10-hour window experienced:
- Lower blood pressure
- Reduced LDL cholesterol (the “bad” cholesterol)
- Improved sleep patterns
The mechanism is tied to the circadian rhythm—our body’s natural 24-hour clock. Eating within a consistent time window helps regulate hormone cycles, including insulin and cortisol, which play a critical role in metabolism. Tools like Fastry allow you to stick to these windows easily, tracking fasting and eating times for maximum effect.