Feasibility of Time-Restricted Eating in the Treatment of Type 2 Diabetes – the RESET2 Pilot Study

Introduction: Time-restricted eating (TRE) reduces the daily window for eating and drinking. We aimed to investigate the feasibility of a 12-week 10-hour TRE intervention targeting individuals with type 2 diabetes (T2D) to inform the design of a 1-year RCT.
Methods: In this single-arm pilot study, 20 individuals with T2D and overweight/obesity (BMI≥25 kg/m2) followed 8-weeks TRE with a fixed 10-hour eating window, followed by 4-weeks TRE with individually adjustments and support.
Results: 19 participants completed the study. After 12 weeks, reductions in mean (95%CI) body weight of -2.0 (-2.9;-1.1) kg and HbA1c of -4.1 (-6.7;-1.4) mmol/mol were observed. Determinants for adherence were support from healthcare professionals, relatives, and peers, and adjustments of window, e.g., ‘days off’ and morning coffee.
Conclusion: 12 weeks of TRE was feasible and safe and may improve glycemic control and body weight in T2D. Individualized support and adjustments are essential for TRE implementation and sustainability.