Comparing time-restricted eating and continuous calorie restriction for weight loss and colorectal cancer risk in obese adults

Effects of Time-restricted Eating versus Daily Continuous Calorie Restriction on Body Weight and Colorectal Cancer Risk Markers among Adults with Obesity

NIH-funded research University of Illinois at Chicago · NIH-10918115

This study is looking at how two different eating plans—one where you eat all your meals in a set time each day and another where you simply eat fewer calories throughout the day—can help adults with obesity lose weight and lower their risk of colorectal cancer.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Illinois at Chicago NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Chicago, UNITED STATES)
Project IDNIH-10918115 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the effects of two dietary approaches—time-restricted eating and daily continuous calorie restriction—on body weight and colorectal cancer risk markers in adults with obesity. Participants will be guided to consume their daily food within a specific time window while fasting for the rest of the day, which may help improve adherence compared to traditional calorie counting. The study aims to assess the safety and effectiveness of these methods over an extended period, focusing on weight loss and various health markers related to cancer risk. By comparing these two approaches, the research seeks to identify a more effective strategy for obesity management and cancer prevention.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adults aged 21 and older who are classified as obese.

Not a fit: Patients who are not obese or those with severe medical conditions that prevent dietary changes may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide a more effective dietary approach for weight loss and reducing colorectal cancer risk in obese adults.

How similar studies have performed: Previous pilot studies have shown promising results for time-restricted eating in terms of weight loss and health improvements, indicating potential for success in this larger study.

Where this research is happening

Chicago, UNITED STATES

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.