This randomized controlled trial compares the effects of two dietary strategies—Volumetric Diet (VD) and Time-Restricted Eating (TRE)—on body composition in middle-aged, physically active adults over a 12-week period. Both groups experienced significant reductions in body weight, fat mass (absolute and relative), BMI, waist and hip circumference, and waist-to-height ratio. Lean body mass was maintained in both groups, with no significant differences between them.
The study also assessed adherence, finding higher self-reported compliance in the TRE group than the VD group, although adherence declined slightly over time in both groups. Neither group showed significant changes in energy or macronutrient intake, and protein intake levels were similar. The study concludes that both VD and TRE are viable strategies to manage or prevent age-related body composition changes, with adherence being a key determinant of their effectiveness.