The article discusses the controversial use of intermittent fasting for weight loss and maintenance, but research has found that it is not the only effective method of reducing the intake of calories, but the number of hours per day spent on the diet can influence the metabolism. A study by the College of Family Physicians of Canada found that participants on an intermittent fasting plan unintentionally consumed 200 less calories per day. The article also mentions that while intermittent fasting can lead to weight loss, it does not necessarily trigger a metabolic weight loss switch.