>It's such a shame that there isn't more research in this area.
From what I've seen there is actually research into it and the weight loss/fitness benefits don't seem to be any better than any other calorie restriction when equating calories (slightly worse for muscle mass when combined with exercise in one study IIRC), and other claims seem overblown.
You're right, the weight loss per calorie restricted is about the same. That's not the point, it's about feeling better, being healthier and for IF, the lifestyle makes it easier to manage your sugar intake, calorie intake and overall health.
Sure, but I think there were some studies that looked at adherence and it didn't seem different to other diets there as well - but I could be misremembering.
That being said - this is highly individual stuff - even if something doesn't work for 99% of people - it doesn't matter if it works for you - and it's easy to try.
It's just important to have realistic expectations about these things, because overhyping tends to lead to motivation spikes - you get enthusiastic and then you get disappointed and crash to 0.
From what I've seen there is actually research into it and the weight loss/fitness benefits don't seem to be any better than any other calorie restriction when equating calories (slightly worse for muscle mass when combined with exercise in one study IIRC), and other claims seem overblown.
Layne Norton has a couple of good study reviews (eg. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0PyBoKSv2tI)