NIH-funded research R01 grant

How timing of food intake affects weight loss in obesity treatment.

Official title: Effect of time-based energy intake goals on weight loss during obesity treatment.

Funded at University of Tennessee Knoxville · NIH-11009565 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This study is looking at how when you eat during the day can help you lose weight if you're working on managing obesity, and it will show you how to plan your meals to eat more earlier in the day for better results.

More Obesity research and trials

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Tennessee Knoxville
NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Knoxville, United States)
Project startJanuary 10, 2024
Project endDecember 31, 2028
Funding year2025
Award (this year)$560,211
NIH project number5R01DK137752-02
Project IDNIH-11009565 on NIH RePORTER

Who could benefit from this research

Could help

Ideal candidates for this research are adults aged 21 and older who are seeking to lose weight and manage obesity.

Less likely to help

Patients who are not overweight or obese may not receive any benefit from this research.

What this research studies

This research investigates how the timing of energy intake throughout the day can influence weight loss in individuals undergoing obesity treatment. By focusing on time-based dietary goals, the study aims to synchronize biological and behavioral circadian rhythms, potentially enhancing appetite regulation and promoting weight loss. Participants will be guided on how to distribute their caloric intake, with an emphasis on consuming more calories earlier in the day. The study will assess the long-term effects of this approach on weight loss and appetite control.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective weight loss strategies for individuals struggling with obesity.

How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results with time-based dietary interventions, although long-term effects remain largely unexplored.

Where this research is happening

  • University of Tennessee Knoxville
    Knoxville, United States
    Active

Researchers

  • Principal investigator: Raynor, Hollie a — University of Tennessee Knoxville
  • Study coordinator: Raynor, Hollie a

Related research

Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.

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.
Last reviewed 2026-11-14 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.