The goal of this randomised controlled trial is to investigate whether Time-Restricted Eating (TRE) combined with a Low Glycaemic Index Mediterranean Diet can improve cognitive function, metabolic health, and biological ageing in late perimenopausal and menopausal women aged 45-75 years with a BMI ≥23 kg/m². It will consist of a 12-week intervention followed by a 12 week follow-up period. Researchers will compare a group following the 16:8 time-restricted eating schedule and Low Glycaemic Index Mediterranean Diet to a control group (waiting list) receiving no dietary or meal-timing instructions to determine if these dietary strategies influence cognitive function, assessed via brain-derived neurotropic factor (BDNF) and cognitive function tests, metabolic outcomes, biological age, the gut microbiome, tender and swollen joint count and global health. Participants will: Follow a 16:8 time-restricted eating schedule (eating within an 8-hour window and fasting for 16 hours) if assigned to the intervention group. Adhere to a tailored Low Glycaemic Index Mediterranean Diet and track meals using the Nutrium app. Attend study visits at the University of Nicosia at Week 0, Week 12, and Week 24 for various assessments. Provide biological samples, including blood samples at five specific intervals and stool samples at Week 0 and Week 12. Complete multiple questionnaires regarding diet, lifestyle, sleep quality, physical activity, tender and swollen joints, and quality of life. Undergo physical and cognitive assessments, such as CNS Vital Signs tests, blood pressure measurements, and body composition analysis. The two groups will be compared to understand if the intervention improves outcomes and can thus be applied in this population group.
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Brain-derived neurotrophic factor concentration
Timeframe: Week 0 and Week 12 for the intervention period and Week 24 for the follow-up period