Beyond the Scales: A Qualitative Study on the Biopsychosocial Impacts of Time-Restricted Eating in Free-Living Individuals

Hilmi S. Rathomi; Nahal Mavaddat; Judith M. Katzenellenbogen; Sandra C. Thompson

doi:10.3390/obesities5010010

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Beyond the Scales: A Qualitative Study on the Biopsychosocial Impacts of Time-Restricted Eating in Free-Living Individuals

Journal article

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Beyond the Scales: A Qualitative Study on the Biopsychosocial Impacts of Time-Restricted Eating in Free-Living Individuals

Hilmi S. Rathomi, Nahal Mavaddat, Judith M. Katzenellenbogen and Sandra C. Thompson

Obesities, Vol.5(1), 10

2025

DOI: https://doi.org/10.3390/obesities5010010

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Abstract

biopsychosocial

dietary approach

health behaviour

time-restricted eating

weight management

Time-restricted eating (TRE) has gained attention as an effective approach for weight management and overall well-being by focusing on limiting the eating window, rather than reducing calories. This study explores the biopsychosocial impacts of TRE in free-living individuals using a qualitative design. Twenty-one adults (aged 27–60 years) from Western Australia who had practised TRE for at least three months were purposively recruited, and semi-structured interviews were conducted. The data were analysed using a thematic analysis to identify key themes. The participants reported a range of benefits, including weight loss, reduced joint pain, better digestion, improved mental clarity, increased energy, and a more positive body image. Socially, TRE facilitated simplified daily routines but also introduced challenges, such as disruptions to social interactions and family meal dynamics. Some mixed and negative impacts were reported, including changes in sleep and exercise patterns. These findings highlight TRE’s potential as a holistic dietary intervention. Further research, particularly well-controlled, randomised controlled trials and longitudinal studies, is needed to confirm these insights and guide their appropriate application in clinical and public health settings.

Details

Title: Beyond the Scales: A Qualitative Study on the Biopsychosocial Impacts of Time-Restricted Eating in Free-Living Individuals
Authors/Creators: Hilmi S. Rathomi - The University of Western Australia
Nahal Mavaddat - The University of Western Australia
Judith M. Katzenellenbogen - The University of Western Australia
Sandra C. Thompson - The University of Western Australia
Publication Details: Obesities, Vol.5(1), 10
Publisher: Mdpi
Number of pages: 15
Grant note: Indonesia Endowment Fund for Education (LPDP), Ministry of Finance, Republic of Indonesia
Identifiers: 991005884837207891
Murdoch Affiliation: Ngangk Yira Institute for Change
Language: English
Resource Type: Journal article

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