Can eating only during certain hours help aging brains? small study tests the idea

NCT ID NCT05997316

First seen Jun 27, 2026 ยท Last updated Jun 27, 2026

Summary

This study looked at whether a time-restricted eating plan (fasting for 16 hours, 2-3 days a week) is feasible and acceptable for older adults aged 65-80 who have mild cognitive impairment and obesity. 33 participants completed the 12-week program, working with a psychologist to gradually adopt the eating schedule. The researchers also measured changes in memory, thinking skills, and metabolic health, but the main goal was to see if people would stick with the plan.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only โ€” not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance
time-restricted eating (behavioral intervention)
What this could lead to
If successful, this could point toward a simple dietary strategy to support brain health in older adults at risk for dementia.
What could go wrong
This is a small, early feasibility study with only 33 participants. It was not designed to prove that time-restricted eating improves cognition, only that it is acceptable and doable.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

Cognitive Dysfunction Obesity obesity disorder

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

Contacts and locations

Locations

  • University of North Carolina

    Chapel Hill, North Carolina, 27519, United States

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