Benefits of intermittent fasting and non-pharmacological correction of eating behaviour in obesity management

Based on an analysis of literature sources from the Pubmed, MEDLINE, the Cochrane Library, and Embase databases, general provisions are presented regarding the effectiveness of various intermittent fasting regimens in the management of metabolic syndrome and obesity. The intermittent fasting is a promising strategy for improving metabolic parameters in patients with obesity. This disease is associated with premature mortality, increased risk of developing diabetes mellitus, cardiovascular diseases, certain types of malignant neoplasms, and is the result of a complex interaction between biological, genetic, environmental, and behavioural factors. Obesity is a complex, multifactorial chronic disorder that is difficult to treat. It is emphasised that overweight patients should choose a weight loss method that is easier for them to incorporate into their daily lifestyle in order to reap the long-term benefits of dietary correction. Research in the field of weight loss, i.e., deliberate efforts aimed at reducing body weight and weight management, which are represented by long-term approaches to maintaining a healthy weight, correcting eating behaviour, choosing optimal diets and fasting, is rapidly developing with a particular focus on psychological approaches to working with patients. This review presents a description of the research results on the most common intermittent fasting regimens, an analysis of the effectiveness of dietary recommendations, and the role of psychotherapy in the long-term management of patients with obesity.