Impact of Chronotype-Based Time-Restricted Eating on Visceral Fat and Metabolic Health in Physically Inactive Adults With Central Obesity

Inclusion Criteria: 1. Chinese adults, male or female, aged between 18-65 years old; 2. BMI of 23 kg/m² or higher, with a waist circumference exceeding 80 cm for females and 90 cm for males; 3. Weight stability for at least three months prior to the start of the study; 4. Physically inactive, indicated by not meeting established WHO guidelines on physical activity and sedentary behavior (i.e., at least 150-300 minutes of moderate-intensity or at least 75-150 minutes of vigorous-intensity aerobic exercise; or an equivalent combination of moderate and vigorous-intensity activity throughout the week; 5. Baseline eating duration exceeding 10 hours per day; 6. Identified as either early or late chronotypes (Morningness-Eveningness Questionnaire) Exclusion Criteria: 1. Individuals currently or chronically receiving pharmacological treatment for hypertension, diabetes, weight loss, or other metabolic conditions; 2. Night shift workers; 3. Individuals with eating disorders; 4. Female participants who are breast-feeding, pregnant, or attempting to become pregnant; 5. Individuals currently participating in other weight-management programs or following other prescribed diet programs.