This is essentially a form of “intermittent fasting”, currently very trendy in many health and dietary circles.
The theory is built upon the premise that we evolved eating irregularly - hardly ever got three squares 7 days a week - and therefore our bodies operate more efficiently (as it evolved to do) when we intermittently fast. Of course, we also evolved without receiving regular medical checkups. And I don’t think any sane person would argue that we’d be healthier if we never visited the doctor.
Not necessarily endorsing it, but some research does support several significant health benefits, so long as it isn’t offset by binge eating and gluttony during non-fasting periods.
I actually do intermittently fast and have for several years, though not really by choice (long hours, long commute, no meal breaks). But I also offset it like a pro on the days when I’m not working. I’ve had no significant weight change - very slight loss, but have gained muscle mass and feel more healthy overall, despite a significant reduction in regular strenuous exercise.
Hard to say what all influenced these changes, and whether diet has had anything to do with it, as there’s been too many other lifestyle variables that have also changed for me over the past several years. Used to have a somewhat typical 5-day work week, and now work more hours over a 3-day work week. Used to basically sit at a desk, and now I’m mostly on my feet and moving. Etc.
