protocols

16:8 vs 2MAD vs OMAD: A Complete Comparison

A side-by-side breakdown of the three most popular intermittent fasting protocols — 16:8, two meals a day, and one meal a day — so you can choose the right one.

2026-05-20

There are three intermittent fasting protocols that most people end up choosing between: 16:8, 2MAD, and OMAD. They're all forms of time-restricted eating, but they differ significantly in difficulty, results, and who they suit. Here's the honest comparison. | | 16:8 | 2MAD | OMAD | |---|---|---|---| | Fasting window | 16 hours | ~18 hours | ~23 hours | | Meals per day | 2–3 within window | 2 | 1 | | Eating window | 8 hours |…

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