Hanyang University researchers explore role of time-restricted eating in controlling MASLD
A new study explored the benefits of time-restricted eating (TRE) in patients with metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD)
image: The study results suggest that TRE can effectively reduce hepatic steatosis and can serve as a practical dietary strategy for MASLD management. However, the dietary pattern is not superior to traditional calorie restriction when total energy intake is controlled.
Credit: Hanyang University
Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) is a condition where excess fat builds up in the liver due to metabolic risk factors. The cornerstone for treating MASLD is managing the underlying metabolic risk factors through a healthy diet and physical activity.
A group of researchers from Hanyang University, under the guidance of Professor Dae Won Jun, explored the effect of time-restricted eating (TRE) in managing MASLD. TRE is a form of intermittent fasting focused on eating all the daily calories within a specific daily window. ““What is the most effective and sustainable dietary approach for patients with MASLD? We wanted to find an answer to this question,” mentioned Professor Jun while talking about the motivation behind the study. The study was published online on June 19, 2025, in the Journal of Hepatology
For the study, patients with overweight or obesity and MASLD were randomized into three groups: standard of care (SOC) group, or the control group; the calorie restriction (CR) group; and the TRE group. Improvement in hepatic steatosis and changes in physical, physiological and biochemical parameters were analyzed.
Participants in both the TRE and CR groups showed a significant decrease in hepatic steatosis, body weight, and visceral fat. Serious adverse events were not reported in either the TRE group or the CR group. Notably, TRE participants achieved these benefits simply by limiting eating hours while maintaining their usual meals, without adopting specific diets such as the Mediterranean diet. “Our study suggests that TRE may be more practical and easier to follow, especially for Asian populations,” said Dr. Joo Hyun Oh, a researcher associated with the study. Changes in blood glucose, cholesterol, and sleep duration were similar between CR and TRE. This suggests that while TRE effectively improves liver fat and function, it may not provide additional metabolic or sleep-related advantages beyond CR.
As obesity is now a global issue, a clear, evidence-based guidance on finding the right diet is crucial. This research work can help in correcting misconceptions regarding unproven dietary trends. As TRE and CR are similarly effective in managing MASLD, individuals should choose an eating pattern suitable for their lifestyle. In the following years, the insights from this study can guide the development of personalized dietary strategies, tailored to each individual’s daily routine, cultural background, and biological needs. This can help in achieving sustainable weight management and preventing metabolic diseases.
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Reference
DOI: 10.1016/j.jhep.2025.06.005
About Hanyang University
Hanyang University traces its roots back to 1939 when the Dong-A Engineering Institute was established. By 1948, the institute had transformed into the nation’s first private university, evolving into Hanyang University in 1959. At its core, Hanyang University upholds the Founding Philosophy of “Love in Deed and Truth,” and its mission is to provide practical education and professional training to future experts and leaders. With a rich history spanning nearly a century, Hanyang University continues to uphold its core values while adapting to the evolving landscape of education and research, both domestically and internationally.
Website: https://www.hanyang.ac.kr/web/eng
About Professor Dae Won Jun
Prof. Dae Won Jun is a clinician-scientist based in Korea, specializing in steatotic liver disease (SLD). He is a professor at the College of Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Hanyang University. He completed his bachelor's and master's in medicine from Hanyang University. His research integrates clinical studies with translational approaches to identify new therapeutic targets for SLD and metabolic liver diseases. He leads nationwide SLD databases and collaborates on the development of small-molecule and RNA-based therapies aimed at improving outcomes in patients with metabolic and alcohol-associated liver diseases.