Understanding the potential benefits and risk factors when using an intervention of time restricted eating in clinical practice. A phenomenological study of professionally registered nutritional therapists' perspectives
By Rosemary Ferguson - Online MSc - Advanced Nutrition
Abstract
The popularity of time restricted eating (TRE) in nutritional therapy has increased exponentially in recent times. TRE is a dietary intervention that allows eating and drinking within a certain time window. Click or tap here to enter text. There are conflicting data on the efficacy and appropriateness of TRE for differing health concerns. The aim of this qualitative study was to explore the potential benefits and risk factors when using TRE as perceived by registered nutritional therapists (RNT).
This qualitative study was approached using a phenomenological methodology. Semi structured interviews were conducted virtually with seven eligible participants (n=7). Participants were required to have worked as an RNT for more than three years and have used TRE with ten clients or more. Data was analysed according to the six-stage framework of reflexive thematic analysis (RTA) set out by Braun and Clarke.
This RTA identified possible risks when using TRE with clients, including potential nutrient deficiency. TRE was considered inappropriate for vulnerable populations including anyone with a history of disordered eating or endocrine imbalances. Participants agreed that using TRE was beneficial for metabolic conditions. The findings revealed the importance of taking the individual’s lifestyle into account, as this could have a direct impact on adherence and outcomes for clients. While some of the benefits and potential risk factors of TRE were acknowledged by the participants, the data highlights the need for further research, as there were many areas in which RNTs still felt uncertain about using the regime. This information could facilitate the generation of clearer guidelines for the use of TRE in clinical practice.
