The effect of chronotype on chrononutrition and circadian parameters in adults: a cross-sectional study

This study aims to assess the chrononutrition behaviors, circadian parameters, and meal distribution of the dietary intake according to the chronotypes. This study included 362 adults (51.1% females and 48.9% males). 24-hour dietary recalls were performed separately for weekdays and weekends. Chrono nutritional behaviours, the Night Eating Questionnaire, Pittsburg's Sleep Quality Index and the Morningness-Eveningness Questionnaire were performed. Morning individuals were found to have more regular meals, had a higher total number of meals and frequency of breakfast, while they had lower NES scores and eating jetlag than evening individuals. Breakfast energy intake was greater in the morning group on weekdays and weekends, whereas dinner energy intake was higher in the evening group only on weekdays.The evening chronotype has been reported to have more unhealthy eating habits and to be prone to having more energy intake in later hours. Further study is needed to recommed dietary treatment based on chronotype and chrononutrition for optimal health.