There are so many diets it can be very confusing, but alternate day fasting may help to lose up to 8 pounds in 2 weeks for those who are obese. Volunteers were starved for 36 hours before being allowed to indulge in whatever they wanted for 12 hours. It seems that they ate less calories than they would have done if they had been eating for the the whole time period. They reduced their calories by a third which helped them lose weight.

Scientists say this could be an easier way to lose weight rather than counting calories or restricting diets and portion sizes. It is also similar to a caveman diet,when food could often be scarce and people could go for long periods without eating, not through choice. It may be that our bodies are built to function this way.

Calorie restriction and fasting can have many beneficial effects, and subsequently there has been much research into fasting. With people losing weight, feeling happier and less stressed, and also feeling healthier.

Despite the findings, it is recommended not to do this for long periods of time, but it could be good for a few months at a time for those who are obese or who suffer from diabetes.