CANBERRA, May 29 (Xinhua) -- Australia's leading scientists have developed a "Flexi" fasting diet which they say will lead to significant weight loss and widespread improvements in glucose, insulin and cholesterol readings.
Researchers from the Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO), the scientific agency which brought out the hugely successful Total Wellbeing Diet, on Monday released results of a diet trial which involved intermittently fasting three times a week.
According to CSIRO dietitian, Dr Jane Bowen, participants in the 16-week trial experienced an average weight loss of 11 kilograms, and also found vast improvements in levels of cholesterol, blood pressure, insulin and glucose.
"This was (our) largest study exploring the effects of an intermittent fasting style of diet on weight loss, health and nutrient status," Bowen said in a statement on Monday.
"In addition to improvement in weight loss and overall health, we also observed psychological improvements, with participants indicating better control over eating habits."
The trials included fasting intermittently and replacing some meals with "replacement shakes," while it also featured a "flexi day" on which dieters can eat freely.
Bowen said many Australians who attempt diets are unable to maintain the strict rules for weeks at a time, whereas the Flexi fasting diet still allows a "cheat day," meaning it's mentally easier to eat healthy for longer.
"Losing weight can be challenging with results often limited by an individual's ability to stick with a diet," Bowen said.
"The Flexi program offers a flexible alternative to traditional diets, which could help Australians to fit a weight loss diet around their busy, social lifestyles."
