Obesity (being overweight due to excess body fat) is a common health condition that increases the risk of developing problems such as diabetes, high blood pressure, and heart disease. Time-restricted eating (TRE), which involves eating all meals within a set period each day, has become a popular and simple approach for weight management. However, not everyone achieves the same results from TRE. Research suggests that poor sleep and chronic insomnia can increase hunger, affect food choices, and lead to higher calorie intake, which may make weight loss more difficult.
This study aims to examine whether improving sleep can enhance the effectiveness of flexible time-restricted eating (FTRE) for weight loss. Participants will receive either FTRE alone or FTRE combined with Cognitive Behavioural Therapy for Insomnia (CBTI), a well-established treatment for chronic insomnia. By comparing these two approaches, this study will help determine whether addressing sleep problems can improve weight management outcomes in individuals with overweight or obesity and chronic insomnia. The findings may contribute to the development of more effective and comprehensive lifestyle programmes for improving both sleep and weight-related health.
Ethnic Chinese;
Age 18 years or older;
With Overweight or obesity: BMI ≥ 23 kg/m2
Weight stable for the past 3 months
Known cardiovascular disease;
Type 1 or 2 diabetes mellitus;
Current use of GLP-1 receptor agonists or other prescription weight-loss medications within the past 3 months;
Currently on a special or prescribed diet for other reasons;