Beneficial Effects of Early Time-Restricted Feeding on Metabolic Diseases: Importance of Aligning Food Habits with the Circadian Clock

Intermittent fasting for weight management and metabolic health: An updated comprehensive umbrella review of health outcomes

AIMS

To provide an updated comprehensive evaluation of the quality and evidence association of existing studies on health outcomes related to intermittent fasting (IF).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We conducted a systematic search of PubMed, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, and Embase databases, covering literature up to June 2024. Meta-analyses and systematic reviews that include adult populations and quantitatively analyse health outcomes related to IF interventional studies are included. For evidence with complete data, we reanalyzed health evidence effect sizes and 95% confidence intervals using random-effects models. Article quality and the certainty of the evidence were graded using A Measurement Tool to Assess Systematic Reviews (AMSTAR-2), Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE) system, and a standardized credibility grading system.

RESULTS

Twelve meta-analysis studies and 122 health outcome associations with IF were identified. High-quality evidence indicated significant associations between time-restricted eating (TRE) and weight loss, fat mass reduction, decreased fasting insulin and glycosylated haemoglobin levels in overweight or obese adults, as well as between the 5:2 diet and reduced low-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels. Moderate-to-low-quality evidence suggested associations between modified alternate-day fasting and improvements in body weight, lipid profile and blood pressure. Additionally, high-to-low-quality evidence showed that IF regimens effectively improved liver health in non-alcoholic fatty liver disease.

CONCLUSIONS

This umbrella review highlights IF, especially TRE, as a promising intervention for weight and metabolic health, particularly beneficial for overweight or obese adults. We also highlight the need for further extensive research to understand the long-term effects, individualized IF plans and potential adverse effects of IF in different populations.

Adherence and Retention in Early or Late Time-Restricted Eating: A Narrative Review of Randomized Controlled Trials

Time-restricted eating (TRE) is a form of intermittent fasting that involves reducing the time-period in which food is typically consumed daily. While TRE is known to induce health benefits, particularly for adults with obesity, there is currently debate about whether the time of day in which food is consumed also contributes to the health benefits of TRE. Early TRE (eTRE) and late TRE (lTRE) are subtypes of TRE that involve consuming food and caloric beverages either in the early or later part of the day. A growing body of literature indicates that eTRE may offer additional health benefits compared with lTRE. An important and unanswered question, however, is whether most adults can adhere to this type of eating pattern and whether adherence and retention differ between eTRE and lTRE. This narrative review compared adherence and retention in studies that implemented either eTRE or lTRE in adults for 8 weeks or longer. Five databases were searched, and 10 studies met our eligibility criteria. The key finding was that participants had high and comparable levels of adherence and retention in both eTRE and lTRE interventions. Specifically, the mean adherence rate was 81.4% for eTRE and 82.3% for lTRE, while the mean retention rate was 81% for eTRE and 85.8% for lTRE in eligible studies. Thus, the findings support the feasibility of both approaches. The lowest adherence and retention rates occurred in studies in which either eTRE or lTRE regimens were combined with other dietary interventions. Notably, the duration of the eating window did not seem to negatively affect adherence and retention rates for either eTRE or lTRE. More research is warranted to determine the influence of other factors, such as age and study location, on adherence to and retention of both eTRE and lTRE interventions.

Interaction Between Early Meals (Big-Breakfast Diet), Clock Gene mRNA Expression, and Gut Microbiome to Regulate Weight Loss and Glucose Metabolism in Obesity and Type 2 Diabetes

The circadian clock gene system plays a pivotal role in coordinating the daily rhythms of most metabolic processes. It is synchronized with the light-dark cycle and the eating-fasting schedule. Notably, the interaction between meal timing and circadian clock genes (CGs) allows for optimizing metabolic processes at specific times of the day. Breakfast has a powerful resetting effect on the CG network. A misaligned meal pattern, such as skipping breakfast, can lead to a discordance between meal timing and the endogenous CGs, and is associated with obesity and T2D. Conversely, concentrating most calories and carbohydrates (CH) in the early hours of the day upregulates metabolic CG expression, thus promoting improved weight loss and glycemic control. Recently, it was revealed that microorganisms in the gastrointestinal tract, known as the gut microbiome (GM), and its derived metabolites display daily oscillation, and play a critical role in energy and glucose metabolism. The timing of meal intake coordinates the oscillation of GM and GM-derived metabolites, which in turn influences CG expression, playing a crucial role in the metabolic response to food intake. An imbalance in the gut microbiota (dysbiosis) can also reciprocally disrupt CG rhythms. Evidence suggests that misaligned meal timing may cause such disruptions and can lead to obesity and hyperglycemia. This manuscript focuses on the reciprocal interaction between meal timing, GM oscillation, and circadian CG rhythms. It will also review studies demonstrating how aligning meal timing with the circadian clock can reset and synchronize CG rhythms and GM oscillations. This synchronization can facilitate weight loss and improve glycemic control in obesity and those with T2D.

Time-restricted feeding mediated modulation of microbiota leads to changes in muscle physiology in Drosophila obesity models

Recent research has highlighted the essential role of the microbiome in maintaining skeletal muscle physiology. The microbiota influences muscle health by regulating lipid metabolism, protein synthesis, and insulin sensitivity. However, metabolic disturbances such as obesity can lead to dysbiosis, impairing muscle function. Time-restricted feeding (TRF) has been shown to mitigate obesity-related muscle dysfunction, but its effects on restoring healthy microbiomes remain poorly understood. This study utilizes 16S microbiome analysis and bacterial supplementation to investigate the bacterial communities influenced by TRF that may benefit skeletal muscle physiology. In wild-type and obese Drosophila models (axenic models devoid of natural microbial communities), the absence of microbiota influence muscle performance and metabolism differently. Specifically, axenic wild-type Drosophila exhibited reduced muscle performance, higher glucose levels, insulin resistance, ectopic lipid accumulation, and decreased ATP levels. Interestingly, in obese Drosophila (induced by a high-fat diet or predisposed obesity mutant Sk2), the absence of microbiota improved muscle performance, lowered glucose levels, reduced insulin resistance, and increased ATP levels. TRF was found to modulate microbiota composition, notably increasing Acetobacter pasteurianus (AP) and decreasing Staphylococcus aureus (SA) in both obesity models. Supplementation with AP improved muscle performance and reduced glucose and insulin resistance, while SA supplementation had the opposite effect. This study provides novel insights into the complex interactions between TRF, microbiota, and skeletal muscle physiology in different Drosophila models.

The effects of time-restricted eating alone or in combination with probiotic supplementation in comparison with a calorie-restricted diet on endocrine and metabolic profiles in women with polycystic ovary syndrome: A randomized clinical trial

AIM

To assess the impact of intermittent fasting, with or without probiotic supplementation, versus a calorie-restricted diet on anthropometric measures, metabolic status and gonadal variables in women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).

METHODS

This is a randomized, placebo-controlled, parallel-arm clinical trial. The effects of the 14:10 early time-restricted eating (eTRE) strategy alone or combined with probiotics, on obese women with PCOS, were investigated. Participants were divided into three groups: eTRE plus probiotics (n = 30), eTRE plus placebo (n = 30) and a control group following a standard three-meal-per-day diet with daily calorie restriction (DCR) (n = 30). Over 8 weeks, various anthropometric, metabolic, menstrual and gonadal variables were assessed.

RESULTS

A total of 90 individuals were included in the study, with a mean body weight of 81.4 kg, and a mean age of 30 years. Mean (standard deviation) weight loss was not different between the groups at week 8 (TRE + probiotic: -2.2 [1.6] kg vs. TRE + placebo: -2.9 [2.7] kg vs. DCR: -2.5 [1.7] kg). Results revealed that, while all three regimes led to reductions in body weight, body mass index, vascular risk indicators, hirsutism and acne scores, there were no statistically significant differences between the eTRE groups and the control group in terms of weight loss, or improvements in metabolic, menstrual and gonadal variables (P > .05). Additionally, combining probiotics with eTRE did not benefit hormonal and cardiometabolic factors (P > .05).

CONCLUSIONS

The eTRE alone or eTRE plus probiotics did not result in significantly greater weight loss or improvements in metabolic, menstrual and gonadal variables compared with the standard three-meal DCR diet.

Time-restricted eating affects human adipose tissue fat mobilization

OBJECTIVE

Time-restricted eating (TRE), a dietary approach that confines food intake to specific time windows, has shown metabolic benefits. However, its impact on body weight loss remains inconclusive. The objective of this study was to investigate the influence of early TRE (eTRE) and delayed TRE (dTRE) on fat mobilization using human adipose tissue (AT) cultures.

METHODS

Subcutaneous AT was collected from 21 participants with severe obesity. We assessed fat mobilization by measuring glycerol release in AT culture across four treatment conditions: control, eTRE, dTRE, and 24-h fasting.

RESULTS

TRE had a significant impact on lipolysis (glycerol release [mean (SD)] in micromoles per hour per gram: control, 0.05 [0.003]; eTRE, 0.10 [0.006]; dTRE, 0.08 [0.005]; and fasting, 0.17 [0.008]; p < 0.0001). Both eTRE and dTRE increased lipolysis compared with the control group, with eTRE showing higher glycerol mobilization than dTRE during the overall 24-h time window, especially at the nighttime/habitual sleep episode (p < 0.0001). Further analysis of TRE based on fasting duration revealed that, independently of the time window, glycerol release increased with fasting duration (in micromoles per hour per gram: 8 h = 0.08 [0.001]; 12 h = 0.09 [0.008]; and 16 h of fasting = 0.12 [0.011]; p < 0.0001).

CONCLUSIONS

This study provides insights into the potential benefits of TRE on fat mobilization and may guide the design of future dietary strategies for weight management and metabolic health.

Energy Intake and Dietary Glycemic Load in Late Morning and Risk of Type 2 Diabetes: The Hispanic Community Health Study/Study of Latinos-A Multicenter Prospective Cohort Study

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the association between meal timing and type 2 diabetes risk in U.S. Hispanic/Latino adults.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

The Hispanic Community Health Study/Study of Latinos (HCHS/SOL) is a multicenter, community-based, prospective cohort study. This study included 8,868 HCHS/SOL adults without diabetes at baseline (2008-2011) and attending the visit 2 examination (2014-2017). Energy intake and glycemic load (GL) in each meal timing were assessed at baseline using two 24-h dietary recalls. Incident diabetes was identified through annual follow-up calls or at visit 2. Hazard ratios (HRs) for incident diabetes were estimated using Cox models, accounting for the complex survey design.

RESULTS

The study population (50.9% female) had a baseline mean age of 39.0 (95% CI, 38.4-39.5) years. Over a median (range) follow-up of 5.8 (0.8-9.6) years, 1,262 incident diabetes cases were documented. Greater energy intake and GL in late morning (9:00-11:59 a.m.) were associated with a lower diabetes risk, whereas greater energy intake and GL in other meal timings were not. After accounting for diet quantity and quality, sociodemographic characteristics, lifestyle factors, and chronic conditions, the HRs were 0.94 (95% CI, 0.91-0.97) per 100-kcal energy intake increment and 0.93 (0.89-0.97) per 10-unit GL increment in late morning. Replacing energy intake or GL from early morning (6:00-8:59 a.m.), afternoon (12:00-5:59 p.m.), or evening (6:00-11:59 p.m.) with late-morning equivalents was associated with a comparably lower diabetes risk.

CONCLUSIONS

This study identified late morning as a favorable meal timing in Hispanic/Latino adults, providing a novel perspective on type 2 diabetes prevention that warrants confirmation.

Randomized Controlled Feasibility Trial of Late 8-Hour Time-Restricted Eating for Adolescents With Type 2 Diabetes

Background

No trial to date has tested the effects of late time-restricted eating (lTRE) on glycemic control or body composition in adolescents with type 2 diabetes (T2D).

Objective

The objective of the current study was to examine the feasibility, acceptability, and preliminary efficacy of lTRE compared to a prolonged eating window in adolescents with T2D.

Design

A 12-week, randomized, controlled, feasibility study of lTRE compared to control in adolescents with obesity and new onset T2D was conducted.

Participants/setting

Eligible participants were 13-21 years old; with a diagnosis of T2D, on metformin monotherapy, recruited from Children's Hospital Los Angeles, between January 2021 and December of 2022. From 36 eligible participants, 27 were enrolled (75% recruitment rate; age: 16.5 ± 1.7 years, HbA1c: 6.6 ± 0.9%, 22/27 [81%] Hispanic, 17/27 [63%] female, 23/27 [85%] public insurance; all p-values >.05), and 23 of 27 completed the protocol.

Intervention

Participants wore a continuous glucose monitor (CGM) daily and were randomized to one of two meal-timing schedules for 12-weeks: (1) lTRE (eating all food between 12:00 PM and 20:00 PM without calorie counting or recommended daily caloric intake) or (2) Control (eating over a period of 12 or more hours per day).

Main outcome measures

Study recruitment, retention and adherence to intervention arms were captured to operationalize feasibility. Glucose control (HbA1c), weight loss (%BMIp95), total body fat mass on DEXA, sleep, and dietary intake were explored as secondary outcomes.

Statistical Analysis

Analyses were based on the intention to treat (ITT) population. Between-group differences in clinical outcomes were assessed using mixed-effects longitudinal regression models.

Results

Overall adherence to the 8-hr lTRE was 6.2 ± 1.1 d/wk and Control was 5.9 ± 0.9 d/wk. Participants assigned to lTRE indicated that limiting their eating window did not negatively affect their daily functioning and no adverse events were reported. In this pilot study, lTRE led to a reduction in %BMIp95 (-3.4%-95%CI: -6.1, -0.7, p = 0.02), HbA1c (-0.4%, 95%CI: -0.9, -0.01, p = .06), and ALT (-31.1 U/L, 95%CI: -60, -2, p = .05) within the group. There was no significant difference observed between lTRE and control across these measures (all p > .05). The lTRE group had a -271.4 (95% CI, -565.2, 5.2) kcal/day energy reduction compared to a +293.2 (95% CI: 30.4, 552.7) kcal/day increase in Control (p = .01). There were no significant changes observed in sleep or eating behaviors over the study period between groups.

Conclusions

Recruitment and retention rates suggest a trial of lTRE in adolescents with T2D was feasible. lTRE was seen as acceptable by participants and adherence was high. A revised intervention, building on the successful elements of this pilot alongside adapting implementations strategies to augment adherence and engagement, should therefore be considered.

Adverse events profile associated with intermittent fasting in adults with overweight or obesity: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

BACKGROUND

There is little evidence to comprehensively summarize the adverse events (AEs) profile of intermittent fasting (IF) despite its widespread use in patients with overweight or obesity.

METHODS

We searched the main electronic databases and registry websites to identify eligible randomized controlled trials (RCTs) comparing IF versus control groups. A direct meta-analysis using a fixed-effect model was conducted to pool the risk differences regarding common AEs and dropouts. Study quality was assessed by using the Jadad scale. Pre-specified subgroup and sensitivity analyses were conducted to explore potential heterogeneity.

RESULTS

A total of 15 RCTs involving 1,365 adult individuals were included. Findings did not show a significant difference between IF and Control in risk rate of fatigue [0%, 95% confidence interval (CI), -1% to 2%; P = 0.61], headache [0%, 95%CI: -1% to 2%; P = 0.86] and dropout [1%, 95%CI: -2% to 4%; P = 0.51]. However, a numerically higher risk of dizziness was noted among the IF alone subgroup with non-early time restricted eating [3%, 95%CI: -0% to 6%; P = 0.08].

CONCLUSIONS

This meta-analysis suggested that IF was not associated with a greater risk of AEs in adult patients affected by overweight or obesity. Additional large-scale RCTs stratified by key confounders and designed to evaluate the long-term effects of various IF regimens are needed to ascertain these AEs profile.

Circadian-driven tissue specificity is constrained under caloric restricted feeding conditions

Tissue specificity is a fundamental property of an organ that affects numerous biological processes, including aging and longevity, and is regulated by the circadian clock. However, the distinction between circadian-affected tissue specificity and other tissue specificities remains poorly understood. Here, using multi-omics data on circadian rhythms in mice, we discovered that approximately 35% of tissue-specific genes are directly affected by circadian regulation. These circadian-affected tissue-specific genes have higher expression levels and are associated with metabolism in hepatocytes. They also exhibit specific features in long-reads sequencing data. Notably, these genes are associated with aging and longevity at both the gene level and at the network module level. The expression of these genes oscillates in response to caloric restricted feeding regimens, which have been demonstrated to promote longevity. In addition, aging and longevity genes are disrupted in various circadian disorders. Our study indicates that the modulation of circadian-affected tissue specificity is essential for understanding the circadian mechanisms that regulate aging and longevity at the genomic level.

Scoping review: Exploring the relationship between chrononutrition and glycemic responses in the adult population

Chrononutrition, an emerging body of evidence on the relationship between biological rhythms and metabolism, has been established to be associated with glycemic responses. However, the available evidence is inconsistent, due to protocol variations. Therefore, this review aims to summarize the findings on chrononutrition characteristics and their association with glycemic responses among adults. Systematic searches were conducted across six databases (PubMed, EBSCO Host, ProQuest Central, MEDLINE & Ovid, Scopus and Web of Science) to identify all relevant studies published from January 2012. Two reviewers independently screened the abstracts and full-text articles based on the inclusion and exclusion criteria. Details about population characteristics, study methods and key findings were extracted following the PRISMA-ScR guideline. The quality of selected studies was evaluated using the mixed methods appraisal tool. The searchers identified 49 studies eligible for analysis. The results showed that meal timing, particularly night-time eating and snacking were associated with glycemic responses. Regarding meal regularity, skipping breakfast may affect glycemic responses, but no clear conclusion was drawn about its effect on insulin. The association between meal frequency and glycemic responses was inconclusive. Night fasting duration and restricted eating window are potentially associated with glycemic responses. The current review extensively investigates the association between chrononutrition factors and glycemic responses in adults. However, more prospective cohort and interventional studies are needed to better understand this causal-effect relationship.

Patterns of unhealthy lifestyle and their associations with depressive and anxiety symptoms among Chinese young adults: A latent class analysis

BACKGROUND

There is little evidence on the association between patterns of unhealthy lifestyle and mental health among young adults.

METHOD

This study included a total of 28,978 young adults aged 18 to 44 years old in Guangdong province in south China, which was conducted from September to December in 2022. We used latent class analysis to classify the patterns of unhealthy lifestyle among young adults and used multiple logistic regression to explore their associations with depressive and anxiety symptoms.

RESULT

The weighted prevalence of depressive and anxiety symptoms were 28.0 % and 19.5 %, respectively. The cumulative effect of unhealthy lifestyles on depressive and anxiety symptoms was significant. Five patterns of unhealthy lifestyle were classified. Compared to the relatively healthy lifestyle class, the class with more unhealthy lifestyles (OR = 6.54, 95 % CI: 5.70-7.51) and insufficient sleep (OR = 6.16, 95 % CI: 4.92-7.70) had higher risk for depressive and anxiety symptoms. Meaningfully, having adequate mental health literacy could reduce the risk of depressive and anxiety symptoms from unhealthy lifestyle by half.

LIMITATIONS

The cross-section design study limited causal inferences, and the self-report information may lead to recall bias.

CONCLUSIONS

Unhealthy lifestyles have a negative impact on depressive and anxiety symptoms through independent, cumulative and combined effects, and they could be interrelated. Unhealthy lifestyle patterns differed in younger population by socio-demographic characteristics and mental health literacy. Health-care professionals and policymakers may provide programs to intervene multiple unhealthy lifestyles and improve mental health literacy by integrating healthy lifestyle education to promote youngers' mental health.

Metabolic and circadian inputs encode anticipatory biogenesis of hepatic fed microRNAs

Starvation and refeeding are mostly unanticipated in the wild in terms of duration, frequency, and nutritional value of the refed state. Notwithstanding this, organisms mount efficient and reproducible responses to restore metabolic homeostasis. Hence, it is intuitive to invoke expectant molecular mechanisms that build anticipatory responses to enable physiological toggling during fed-fast cycles. In this regard, we report anticipatory biogenesis of oscillatory hepatic microRNAs that peak during a fed state and inhibit starvation-responsive genes. Our results clearly demonstrate that the levels of primary and precursor microRNA transcripts increase during a fasting state, in anticipation of a fed response. We delineate the importance of both metabolic and circadian cues in orchestrating hepatic fed microRNA homeostasis in a physiological setting. Besides illustrating metabo-endocrine control, our findings provide a mechanistic basis for the overarching influence of starvation on anticipatory biogenesis. Importantly, by using pharmacological agents that are widely used in clinics, we point out the high potential of interventions to restore homeostasis of hepatic microRNAs, whose deregulated expression is otherwise well established to cause metabolic diseases.

Nutrient-epigenome interactions: Implications for personalized nutrition against aging-associated diseases

Aging is a multifaceted process involving genetic and environmental interactions often resulting in epigenetic changes, potentially leading to aging-related diseases. Various strategies, like dietary interventions and calorie restrictions, have been employed to modify these epigenetic landscapes. A burgeoning field of interest focuses on the role of microbiota in human health, emphasizing system biology and computational approaches. These methods help decipher the intricate interplay between diet and gut microbiota, facilitating the creation of personalized nutrition strategies. In this review, we analysed the mechanisms related to nutritional interventions while highlighting the influence of dietary strategies, like calorie restriction and intermittent fasting, on microbial composition and function. We explore how gut microbiota affects the efficacy of interventions using tools like multi-omics data integration, network analysis, and machine learning. These tools enable us to pinpoint critical regulatory elements and generate individualized models for dietary responses. Lastly, we emphasize the need for a deeper comprehension of nutrient-epigenome interactions and the potential of personalized nutrition informed by individual genetic and epigenetic profiles. As knowledge and technology advance, dietary epigenetics stands on the cusp of reshaping our strategy against aging and related diseases.

A late eating midpoint is associated with increased risk of diabetic kidney disease: a cross-sectional study based on NHANES 2013-2020

BACKGROUND

Modifying diet is crucial for diabetes and complication management. Numerous studies have shown that adjusting eating habits to align with the circadian rhythm may positively affect metabolic health. However, eating midpoint, eating duration, and their associations with diabetic kidney disease (DKD) are poorly understood.

METHODS

The National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (2013-2020) was examined for information on diabetes and dietary habits. From the beginning and ending times of each meal, we calculated the eating midpoint and eating duration. Urinary albumin-to-creatinine ratio (UACR) ≥ 30 mg/g and/or estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) < 60 mL/min/1.73 m2 were the specific diagnostic criteria for DKD.

RESULTS

In total, details of 2194 subjects with diabetes were collected for analysis. The overall population were divided into four subgroups based on the eating midpoint quartiles. The prevalence of DKD varied noticeably (P = 0.037) across the four categories. When comparing subjects in the second and fourth quartiles of eating midpoint to those in the first one, the odds ratios (ORs) of DKD were 1.31 (95% CI, 1.03 to 1.67) and 1.33 (95% CI, 1.05 to 1.70), respectively. And after controlling for potential confounders, the corresponding ORs of DKD in the second and fourth quartiles were 1.42 (95% CI, 1.07 to 1.90) and 1.39 (95% CI, 1.04 to 1.85), respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

A strong correlation was found between an earlier eating midpoint and a reduced incidence of DKD. Eating early in the day may potentially improve renal outcomes in patients with diabetes.

Time-restricted eating improves health because of energy deficit and circadian rhythm: A systematic review and meta-analysis

Time-restricted eating (TRE) is an effective way to lose weight and improve metabolic health in animals. Yet whether and how these benefits apply to humans is unclear. This systematic review and meta-analysis examined the effect of TRE in people with overweight and obesity statuses. The results showed that TRE led to modest weight loss, lower waist circumference and energy deficits. TRE also improved body mass index, fat mass, lean body mass, systolic blood pressure, fasting glucose levels, fasting insulin levels, and HbA1c%. Subgroup analysis demonstrated more health improvements in the TRE group than the control group under the ad libitum intake condition than in the energy-prescribed condition. Eating time-of-day advantages were only seen when there was considerable energy reduction in the TRE group than the control group (ad libitum condition), implying that the benefits of TRE were primarily due to energy deficit, followed by alignment with eating time of day.

Fructose corn syrup induces inflammatory injury and obesity by altering gut microbiota and gut microbiota-related arachidonic acid metabolism

Excessive fructose corn syrup (FCS) intake brings a series of health problems. The aim of the present study was to explore the mechanism of FCS-induced metabolic disorders from the perspective of gut microbiota. Mice were fed for 16 weeks with normal or 30% FCS drinking water. Compared to the control group, FCS caused significantly higher fat deposition, hepatic steatosis, liver and intestinal inflammatory damages (P<.05). FCS increased the abundance of Muribaculaceae in vivo and in vitro, which was positively correlated with the indices of metabolic disorders (P<.05). In vivo and in vitro data indicated that FCS enhanced the microbial function involved in pentose phosphate pathway and arachidonic acid metabolism, metabolomics further demonstrated that FCS led to an increase in prostaglandins (the catabolites of arachidonic acid) (P<.05). Our study confirmed that FCS can directly promote gut microbiota to synthesize inflammatory factor prostaglandins, which provides new insights and directions for the treatment of FCS-induced metabolic disorders and inflammation.

Various types of fasting diet and possible benefits in nonalcoholic fatty liver: Mechanism of actions and literature update

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is one of the major causes of chronic liver injury, affecting around one-fourth of the general population across the world. Several important pathophysiological mechanisms underlying NAFLD include oxidative stress, inflammation, liver fibrosis, and apoptosis. Currently, therapeutic approaches are not ideal for managing NAFLD, thus new approaches and treatments are still needed. Over the last two decades, various fasting protocols have been explored to reduce body weight and improve metabolic disorders. In this review, we provide updated literature that supports fasting regimens for subjects with NAFLD and describes underlying mechanisms of action. We suggest that fasting regimens may modulate NAFLD via several mechanisms, including changes in gut microbiota, hepatic arginase, hepatic autophagy, inflammatory responses, liver functional enzymes and hepatic steatosis, fibroblast growth factors signaling, white adipose tissue browning, adipokines, circadian rhythms, lipid profiles, and body composition.

The association between timing of dietary macronutrient and sodium consumption and sleep duration and quality

Study Objective

The objective of this study was to examine the association between the timing of dietary macronutrients and sodium intake and sleep quantity and quality.

Methods

This was a cross-sectional study that included 34 adults between 21 and 50 years of age. The main outcome measures were objective sleep measures assessed from three nights of wrist actigraphy including sleep duration, fragmentation, and wake after sleep onset (WASO), and one night of polysomnography (PSG), including rapid eye movement (REM) sleep, non-REM stage 2 (N2), stage 3 (N3), and WASO. Multiple linear regression models and linear mixed models were used to estimate the associations between sleep measures and dietary measures (carbohydrates, fats, saturated fats, proteins, and sodium). Dietary timing was examined in two ways: (1) the average amount of each nutrient consumed within 3 hours of sleep start, and (2) the interval between the final intake of each nutrient and sleep.

Results

Average fat intake within 3 hours of sleep was associated with greater WASO from PSG (β = 4.48, p = 0.01). No other associations were found between the macronutrients or sodium intake (p > 0.05) within 3 hours of sleep and the sleep parameters from PSG or actigraphy. Similarly, no associations were found between any of the PSG or actigraphy sleep measures and the interval between final nutrient intakes and sleep with sleep duration.

Conclusions

The study suggests that greater fat but not carbohydrate, protein, saturated fat, or sodium intake close to sleep may be associated with greater sleep disruption; however, no other associations were observed.

Nutrition and Chronobiology as Key Components of Multidisciplinary Therapeutic Interventions for Fibromyalgia and Associated Chronic Fatigue Syndrome: A Narrative and Critical Review

Fibromyalgia (FM) is often accompanied by chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS). It is a poorly understood disorder that mainly affects women and leads to chronic pain, fatigue, and insomnia, among other symptoms, which decrease quality of life. Due to the inefficiency of current pharmacological treatments, increasing interest is being directed towards non-pharmacological multicomponent therapies. However, nutrition and chronobiology are often overlooked when developing multicomponent therapies. This narrative and critical review explore the relevance of nutritional and chronobiological strategies in the therapeutic management of FM and the often-associated CFS. Reviewed literature offers scientific evidence for the association of dietary habits, nutrient levels, body composition, gut microbiota imbalance, chronobiological alterations, and their interrelation with the development and severity of symptoms. This review highlights the key role of nutrition and chronobiology as relevant and indispensable components in a multidisciplinary approach to FM and CFS.

Effectiveness of Time-Restricted Eating with Caloric Restriction vs. Caloric Restriction for Weight Loss and Health: Meta-Analysis

Time-restricted eating (TRE) is an increasingly popular dietary strategy for weight loss. Recent studies suggest that combining TRE with caloric restriction (CR) may have more favorable effects on both physical and biochemical aspects when compared with CR alone. Therefore, we performed a meta-analysis to compare the effects of TRE with CR vs. CR alone on anthropometric and biochemical measures in overweight or obese adults. We reviewed articles from PubMed, Web of science, EMBASE, and the Cochrane Library published before 25 May 2023. The meta-analysis incorporated data from seven randomized controlled trials of nine interventions, with a total of 231 participants in the TRE with CR group and 227 participants in the CR-only group. Data were analyzed using RewMan version 5.4.1. All results in our meta-analysis were described as mean difference (MD) with 95% confidence interval (Cl). Results showed that TRE with CR compared to CR alone resulted in significantly greater reductions in body weight (MD: -2.11 kg, 95% CI: -2.68 kg to -1.54 kg, p = < 0.00001, I2 = 42%), body fat mass (MD: -0.75 kg, 95% CI: -1.35 kg to -0.16 kg, p = 0.01; I2 = 0%), and waist circumference (MD: -1.27 cm, 95% CI: -2.36 cm to -0.19 cm, p = 0.02, I2 = 0%), while no additional impact of TRE in combination with CR in comparison to CR on serum biochemical parameters were found. Our results suggest that the improvement in biochemical parameters are mainly caused by CR, while improvements in anthropometric parameters are further enhanced by TRE.

Impact of 8-hour time-limited eating on sleep in adolescents with obesity

STUDY OBJECTIVES

The relationship between time-limited eating (TLE) and sleep quality is a topic of growing interest in the field of chronobiology. Data in adult cohorts shows that TLE may improve sleep quality, but this has not been evaluated in adolescents. The aim of this secondary analysis was to (1) examine the impact of 8-hour TLE on sleep parameters in youth with obesity and (2) explore if there was any association between sleep patterns and glycemic profiles.

METHODS

Adolescents with obesity were randomized into one of three groups: 8-hour TLE (participants self-selected their eating window) + real-time continuous glucose monitor, 8-hour TLE + blinded continuous glucose monitor, or a prolonged eating window. In the primary analysis, it was found that participants in the real-time continuous glucose monitor group + 8-hour TLE group did not access their continuous glucose monitor data and thus for this analysis the two TLE groups were combined and only completers who had available Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) data at all three time points were included. Participants completed the PSQI at baseline, week 4, and week 12. Mixed-effects generalized linear regression models were utilized to examine the change in PSQI score and assess association between glycemic variability and PSQI total score overtime by intervention arm.

RESULTS

The median PSQI total score for the TLE groups (n = 27) was 6 at week 0 (interquartile range = 5 to 10) and 5 at week 12 (interquartile range = 2 to 7). There was no significant difference in the change in total PSQI score or sleep latency between TLE and control over the study period (P > .05). There was no association between PSQI score and change in weight or glycemic profile between groups (all P values > 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

These results suggest that in adolescents with obesity, an 8-hour TLE approach did not negatively impact sleep quality or efficiency when compared to a prolonged eating window. The potential effects of TLE on sleep should be further investigated in larger randomized trials.

CITATION

Jayakumr A, Gillett ES, Wee CP, Kim A, Vidmar AP. Impact of 8-hour time-limited eating on sleep in adolescents with obesity. J Clin Sleep Med. 2023;19(11):1941-1949.

Time-restricted eating with calorie restriction on weight loss and cardiometabolic risk: a systematic review and meta-analysis

The effect of time-restricted eating (TRE) has been summarized in previous studies, but its benefits in combination with calorie restriction (CR) still need to be determined. The present meta-analysis aimed to evaluate the efficacy of TRE with CR on weight loss and cardiometabolic risk. PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, and gray literature databases were searched from inception to October 18, 2022, for potential randomized controlled trial (RCT) studies based on predefined inclusion and exclusion criteria. Body weight and other cardiometabolic risk factors were described as weighted mean difference (WMD) with a 95% confidence interval (CI). Eight RCTs involving 579 participants were enrolled in the present analysis. The pooled results showed that TRE with CR reduced the body weight, fat mass, and waist circumference significantly (WMD: -1.40, 95% CI: -1.81 to -1.00, and I2: 0%; WMD: -0.73, 95% CI: -1.39 to -0.07, and I2: 0%; WMD: -1.87, 95% CI: -3.47 to -0.26, and I2: 67.25%, respectively). However, compared with CR alone, TRE plus CR exhibited no significant benefit on the blood pressure, glucose profile, and lipid profile. Subgroup analysis suggested that early TRE is more effective in weight loss (WMD: -1.42, 95% CI: -1.84 to -1.01, and I2: 0%) and improving fat mass (WMD: -1.06, 95% CI: -1.91 to -0.22, and I2: 0%) than delayed or broader TRE when combined with CR. Although the combination of TRE and CR can effectively decrease body weight, fat mass, and waist circumference, the long-term effects, particularly those on cardiometabolic risk in participants with chronic cardiovascular disease and diabetes, remain to be explored.

The effects of intermittent fasting diet alone or in combination with probiotic supplementation in comparison with calorie-restricted diet on metabolic and hormonal profile in patients with polycystic ovary syndrome: study protocol for a randomized clinical trial

INTRODUCTION

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is one of the most common endocrine disorders in females characterized by ovulatory dysfunction, hyperandrogenism, and other metabolic disorders. Both intermittent fasting and specific probiotics have been suggested to help improve patients with PCOS through changes in gut microbial composition, circadian clock, and metabolic regulation. Therefore, the present study aims to investigate the effects of intermittent fasting alone or in combination with probiotic supplementation compared to the calorie-restricted (CR) diet on anthropometric measures, metabolic status, inflammation, and oxidative stress in women with PCOS.

METHODS

We will carry out a randomized clinical trial for 8 weeks. Participants will be randomly assigned (1:1:1) to one of the three groups: (1) a 14:10 early time-restricted feeding (TRF) diet with probiotic supplementation (n = 30); (2) a 14:10 early TRF diet with placebo supplementation (n = 30); (3) a CR diet (energy-restricted 25% of required calories) with placebo supplementation as a control group (n = 30). The primary outcomes will be changes in body weight and insulin resistance. However, glycemic control, lipid profile, metabolic parameters, sex hormone-binding globulin, dehydroepiandrosterone, anti-Mullerian hormone, free androgen index, hirsutism, acne, antioxidant and oxidant status, inflammation, anthropometric measures, mental health, sleep quality, appetite, eating behavior, food craving, and blood pressure are secondary outcomes. All outcomes of this study will be evaluated in pre- and post-intervention.

DISCUSSION

We hypothesized that 10-h TRE administered alone or in combination with probiotic supplementation to overweight and obese PCOS subjects would lead to weight loss and improved metabolic, hormonal, inflammatory, and antioxidant markers compared to control subjects following a standard 3-meal-per-day CR diet.

ETHICAL ASPECTS

The current trial received approval from the Medical Ethics Committee of Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran (IR.TUMS.MEDICNE.REC.1401.425).

TRIAL REGISTRATION

Iranian Registry of Clinical Trials IRCT20121110011421N5. Registered on 3 October 2022.

Timing Matters: The Interplay between Early Mealtime, Circadian Rhythms, Gene Expression, Circadian Hormones, and Metabolism-A Narrative Review

Achieving synchronization between the central and peripheral body clocks is essential for ensuring optimal metabolic function. Meal timing is an emerging field of research that investigates the influence of eating patterns on our circadian rhythm, metabolism, and overall health. This narrative review examines the relationship between meal timing, circadian rhythm, clock genes, circadian hormones, and metabolic function. It analyzes the existing literature and experimental data to explore the connection between mealtime, circadian rhythms, and metabolic processes. The available evidence highlights the importance of aligning mealtime with the body's natural rhythms to promote metabolic health and prevent metabolic disorders. Specifically, studies show that consuming meals later in the day is associated with an elevated prevalence of metabolic disorders, while early time-restricted eating, such as having an early breakfast and an earlier dinner, improves levels of glucose in the blood and substrate oxidation. Circadian hormones, including cortisol and melatonin, interact with mealtimes and play vital roles in regulating metabolic processes. Cortisol, aligned with dawn in diurnal mammals, activates energy reserves, stimulates appetite, influences clock gene expression, and synchronizes peripheral clocks. Consuming meals during periods of elevated melatonin levels, specifically during the circadian night, has been correlated with potential implications for glucose tolerance. Understanding the mechanisms of central and peripheral clock synchronization, including genetics, interactions with chronotype, sleep duration, and hormonal changes, provides valuable insights for optimizing dietary strategies and timing. This knowledge contributes to improved overall health and well-being by aligning mealtime with the body's natural circadian rhythm.

Efficacy of Fasting in Type 1 and Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus: A Narrative Review

Over the last decade, studies suggested that dietary behavior modification, including fasting, can improve metabolic and cardiovascular markers as well as body composition. Given the increasing prevalence of people with type 1 (T1DM) and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and the increasing obesity (also in combination with diabetes), nutritional therapies are gaining importance, besides pharmaceutical interventions. Fasting has demonstrated beneficial effects for both healthy individuals and those with metabolic diseases, leading to increased research interest in its impact on glycemia and associated short- and long-term complications. Therefore, this review aimed to investigate whether fasting can be used safely and effectively in addition to medications to support the therapy in T1DM and T2DM. A literature search on fasting and its interaction with diabetes was conducted via PubMed in September 2022. Fasting has the potential to minimize the risk of hypoglycemia in T1DM, lower glycaemic variability, and improve fat metabolism in T1DM and T2DM. It also increases insulin sensitivity, reduces endogenous glucose production in diabetes, lowers body weight, and improves body composition. To conclude, fasting is efficient for therapy management for both people with T1DM and T2DM and can be safely performed, when necessary, with the support of health care professionals.

Timing of energy intake and the therapeutic potential of intermittent fasting and time-restricted eating in NAFLD

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) represents a major public health concern and is associated with a substantial global burden of liver-related and cardiovascular-related morbidity and mortality. High total energy intake coupled with unhealthy consumption of ultra-processed foods and saturated fats have long been regarded as major dietary drivers of NAFLD. However, there is an accumulating body of evidence demonstrating that the timing of energy intake across a the day is also an important determinant of individual risk for NAFLD and associated metabolic conditions. This review summarises the available observational and epidemiological data describing associations between eating patterns and metabolic disease, including the negative effects of irregular meal patterns, skipping breakfast and night-time eating on liver health. We suggest that that these harmful behaviours deserve greater consideration in the risk stratification and management of patients with NAFLD particularly in a 24-hour society with continuous availability of food and with up to 20% of the population now engaged in shiftwork with mistimed eating patterns. We also draw on studies reporting the liver-specific impact of Ramadan, which represents a unique real-world opportunity to explore the physiological impact of fasting. By highlighting data from preclinical and pilot human studies, we present a further biological rationale for manipulating timing of energy intake to improve metabolic health and discuss how this may be mediated through restoration of natural circadian rhythms. Lastly, we comprehensively review the landscape of human trials of intermittent fasting and time-restricted eating in metabolic disease and offer a look to the future about how these dietary strategies may benefit patients with NAFLD and non-alcoholic steatohepatitis.

Circadian rhythms, gut microbiota, and diet: Possible implications for health

AIMS

Over the past years, interest in chrono-nutrition has grown enormously as the fundamental role of circadian rhythms in regulating most physiological and metabolic processes has become clearer. Recently, the influence of circadian rhythms on the gut microbiota (GM) composition has also emerged, as more than half of the total microbial composition fluctuates rhythmically throughout the day. At the same time, other studies have observed that the GM itself synchronises the host's circadian biological clock through signals of a different nature. Therefore, it has been hypothesised that there is a two-way communication between the circadian rhythms of the host and the GM, but researchers have only just begun to identify some of its action mechanisms. The manuscript aim is, therefore, to gather and combine the latest evidence in the field of chrono-nutrition with the more recent research on the GM, in order to investigate their relationship and their potential impact on human health.

DATA SYNTHESIS

Considering current evidence, a desynchronization of circadian rhythms is closely associated with an alteration in the abundance and functionality of the gut microbiota with consequent deleterious effects on health, such as increased risk of numerous pathologies, including cardiovascular disease, cancer, irritable bowel disease, and depression. A key role in maintaining the balance between circadian rhythms and GM seems to be attributed to meal-timing and diet quality, as well as to certain microbial metabolites, in particular short-chain fatty acids.

CONCLUSIONS

Future studies are needed to decipher the link between the circadian rhythms and specific microbial patterns in relation to different disease frameworks.

Effects of time-restricted eating with different eating duration on anthropometrics and cardiometabolic health: A systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Time-restricted eating (TRE) is a dietary approach that limits eating to a set number of hours per day. Human studies on the effects of TRE intervention on cardiometabolic health have been contradictory. Heterogeneity in subjects and TRE interventions have led to inconsistency in results. Furthermore, the impact of the duration of eating/fasting in the TRE approach has yet to be fully explored.

AIM

To analyze the existing literature on the effects of TRE with different eating durations on anthropometrics and cardiometabolic health markers in adults with excessive weight and obesity-related metabolic diseases.

METHODS

We reviewed a series of prominent scientific databases, including Medline, Scopus, Web of Science, Academic Search Complete, and Cochrane Library articles to identify published clinical trials on daily TRE in adults with excessive weight and obesity-related metabolic diseases. Randomized controlled trials were assessed for methodological rigor and risk of bias using version 2 of the Cochrane risk-of-bias tool for randomized trials (RoB-2). Outcomes of interest include body weight, waist circumference, fat mass, lean body mass, fasting glucose, insulin, HbA1c, homeostasis model assessment for insulin resistance (HOMA-IR), lipid profiles, C-reactive protein, blood pressure, and heart rate.

RESULTS

Fifteen studies were included in our systematic review. TRE significantly reduces body weight, waist circumference, fat mass, lean body mass, blood glucose, insulin, and triglyceride. However, no significant changes were observed in HbA1c, HOMA-IR, total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, heart rate, systolic and diastolic blood pressure. Furthermore, subgroup analyses based on the duration of the eating window revealed significant variation in the effects of TRE intervention depending on the length of the eating window.

CONCLUSION

TRE is a promising chrononutrition-based dietary approach for improving anthropometric and cardiometabolic health. However, further clinical trials are needed to determine the optimal eating duration in TRE intervention for cardiovascular disease prevention.

Position statement on nutrition therapy for overweight and obesity: nutrition department of the Brazilian association for the study of obesity and metabolic syndrome (ABESO-2022)

Obesity is a chronic disease resulting from multifactorial causes mainly related to lifestyle (sedentary lifestyle, inadequate eating habits) and to other conditions such as genetic, hereditary, psychological, cultural, and ethnic factors. The weight loss process is slow and complex, and involves lifestyle changes with an emphasis on nutritional therapy, physical activity practice, psychological interventions, and pharmacological or surgical treatment. Because the management of obesity is a long-term process, it is essential that the nutritional treatment contributes to the maintenance of the individual's global health. The main diet-related causes associated with excess weight are the high consumption of ultraprocessed foods, which are high in fats, sugars, and have high energy density; increased portion sizes; and low intake of fruits, vegetables, and grains. In addition, some situations negatively interfere with the weight loss process, such as fad diets that involve the belief in superfoods, the use of teas and phytotherapics, or even the avoidance of certain food groups, as has currently been the case for foods that are sources of carbohydrates. Individuals with obesity are often exposed to fad diets and, on a recurring basis, adhere to proposals with promises of quick solutions, which are not supported by the scientific literature. The adoption of a dietary pattern combining foods such as grains, lean meats, low-fat dairy, fruits, and vegetables, associated with an energy deficit, is the nutritional treatment recommended by the main international guidelines. Moreover, an emphasis on behavioral aspects including motivational interviewing and the encouragement for the individual to develop skills will contribute to achieve and maintain a healthy weight. Therefore, this Position Statement was prepared based on the analysis of the main randomized controlled studies and meta-analyses that tested different nutrition interventions for weight loss. Topics in the frontier of knowledge such as gut microbiota, inflammation, and nutritional genomics, as well as the processes involved in weight regain, were included in this document. This Position Statement was prepared by the Nutrition Department of the Brazilian Association for the Study of Obesity and Metabolic Syndrome (ABESO), with the collaboration of dietitians from research and clinical fields with an emphasis on strategies for weight loss.

Impact of Nighttime Food Consumption and Feasibility of Fasting during Night Work: A Narrative Review

Shift work has been associated with an increased risk of developing chronic non-communicable diseases, such as obesity. The reduction in overnight fasting and its physiological consequences seem to affect the metabolic health of shift workers, but little has been discussed regarding the feasibility and implications of maintaining a night-long fast during work. This narrative review aims to discuss the impact of eating behavior on the reduction of overnight fasting in shift workers, as well as possible nutritional strategies involving fasting that have been tested for shift workers, to contribute to the establishment of nutritional guidelines for them. We used various databases and search engines to retrieve relevant articles, reviews, and investigations. Despite the potential benefits of overnight fasting for other groups, few studies have investigated this approach in the context of shift work. Generally, it seems to be a feasible and metabolically beneficial strategy for shift workers. However, it is essential to investigate the potential risks and benefits of reducing the fasting time for shift workers, considering social, hedonic, and stress-related factors. Furthermore, randomized clinical trials are necessary to establish safe and feasible strategies for shift workers to practice different fasting windows.

Effects of time-restricted feeding and walking exercise on the physical health of female college students with hidden obesity: a randomized trial

Purpose

Time-restricted feeding (TRF) is an emerging dietary pattern with many potential effects. This study focused on the effects of TRF and walking on the physical health of female college students with hidden obesity.

Methods

A total of 77 female college students with hidden obesity, aged 18-22 years, were randomly assigned to a control group (CON, N = 19), time-restricted feeding group (TRF, N = 19), exercise group (EXE, N = 20), and TRF combined with exercise group (TRF + EXE, N = 19). The interventions lasted for 8 weeks. Tests assessing body shape, body composition, bone mineral density, blood lipid levels, and blood pressure were performed before and after the intervention.

Results

(1) Intragroup comparison before and after the intervention revealed that the TRF, EXE, and TRF + EXE groups had significantly reduced body weight (p < 0.01), body mass index (BMI) (p < 0.05), and lean tissue mass (LTM) (p < 0.01) but increased total cholesterol (TC) levels (p < 0.05) after the intervention. Body fat percentage (BF%) increased considerably in the EXE and TRF + EXE groups (p < 0.01). (2) Post-intervention comparisons of body weight, BMI, LTM, adipose tissue mass (ATM), total bone mineral density (TBMD), blood lipid levels, and blood pressure between the intervention groups (TRF, EXE, and TRF + EXE) and the CON group showed no significant differences (p > 0.05). (3) A comparison of the changes between the groups before and after the intervention showed significant decreases in body weight in the TRF and TRF + EXE groups (p < 0.05) and in both BMI and LTM in the TRF, EXE, and TRF + EXE groups (p < 0.05) compared to those in the CON group. The BF% change in the EXE and TRF + EXE groups were significantly greater than that in the TRF group (p < 0.01).

Conclusion

TRF effectively decreased body weight and BMI in female college students with hidden obesity. However, increased blood lipid levels and decreased LTM levels were also observed. The effects of TRF combined with exercise were not superior to those of TRF or walking alone in terms of body weight, body mass index, body composition, TBMD, or blood lipid levels. Therefore, TRF cannot be considered the best option for fat reduction in female college students with hidden obesity.

"Effect of time-restricted feeding on high-fat diet-induced metabolic dysfunction in Drosophila melanogaster"

BACKGROUND

Metabolic alterations associated with obesity have been related to chronodisruption i.e., the desynchronization of molecular clocks that regulate circadian rhythms. The search for tools that improve the dietary treatment of obesity has recently focused on behaviors related to chronodisruption, and intermittent fasting is increasingly gaining interest. Studies in animal models have identified the benefits of time-restricted feeding (TRF) on metabolic alterations associated with changes in circadian rhythms induced by a high-fat diet. We aimed to evaluate the effect of TRF in flies with metabolic damage and chronodisruption.

METHODS

Using high-fat diet fed Drosophila melanogaster as a model of metabolic damage and chronodisruption, we determined the impact of 12-h TRF on metabolic and molecular markers. Flies with metabolic dysfunction were switched to a control diet and randomly assigned to Ad libitum or a TRF regimen for seven days. We evaluated total triglyceride content, glycemia, weight, and 24 h mRNA expression rhythms of Nlaz (insulin resistance marker), clock genes (circadian rhythm molecular markers), and the neuropeptide Cch-amide2.

RESULTS

Flies with metabolic damage that received TRF showed lower total triglyceride content, Nlaz expression, circulating glucose, and weight compared to Ad libitum. We observed the recovery of some of the high-fat diet-induced alterations in the amplitude of the circadian rhythm, particularly in the peripheral clock.

CONCLUSIONS

TRF produced a partial reversal of metabolic dysfunction and chronodisruption of circadian cycles.

GENERAL SIGNIFICANCE

TRF could be a useful tool to help to ameliorate metabolic and chronobiologic damage induced by a high-fat diet.

Nightshift work can induce oxidative DNA damage: a pilot study

BACKGROUND

Regular sleep is very important for human health; however, the short-term and long-term effects of nightshift with sleep deprivation and disturbance on human metabolism, such as oxidative stress, have not been effectively evaluated based on a realistic cohort. We conducted the first long-term follow-up cohort study to evaluate the effect of nightshift work on DNA damage.

METHODS

We recruited 16 healthy volunteers (aged 33 ± 5 years) working night shifts at the Department of Laboratory Medicine at a local hospital. Their matched serum and urine samples were collected at four time points: before, during (twice), and after the nightshift period. The levels of 8-oxo-7,8-dihydroguanosine (8-oxoG) and 8-oxo-7,8-dihydro-2'-deoxyguanosine (8-oxodG), two important nucleic-acid damage markers, were accurately determined based on a robust self-established LC‒MS/MS method. The Mann-Whitney U or Kruskal-Wallis test was used for comparisons, and Pearson's or Spearman's correlation analysis was used to calculate the correlation coefficients.

RESULTS

The levels of serum 8-oxodG, estimated glomerular filtration rate-corrected serum 8-oxodG, and the serum-to-urine 8-oxodG ratio significantly increased during the nightshift period. These levels were significantly higher than pre-nightshift work level even after 1 month of discontinuation, but no such significant change was found for 8-oxoG. Moreover, 8-oxoG and 8-oxodG levels were significantly positively associated with many routine biomarkers, such as total bilirubin and urea levels, and significantly negatively associated with serum lipids, such as total cholesterol levels.

CONCLUSION

The results of our cohort study suggested that working night shifts may increase oxidative DNA damage even after a month of discontinuing nightshift work. Further studies with large-scale cohorts, different nightshift modes, and longer follow-up times are needed to clarify the short- and long-term effects of night shifts on DNA damage and find effective solutions to combat the negative effects.

Relationship between the Biological Clock and Inflammatory Bowel Disease

The biological clock is a molecular oscillator that generates a 24-hour rhythm in accordance with the earth's rotation. Physiological functions and pathophysiological processes such as inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD) are closely linked to the molecular clock. This review summarizes 14 studies in humans and mice on the interactions between the biological clock and IBD. It provides evidence that IBD negatively affect core clock gene expression, metabolism and immune functions. On the other hand, disruption of the clock promotes inflammation. Overexpression of clock genes can lead to inhibition of inflammatory processes, while silencing of clock genes can lead to irreversible disease activity. In both human and mouse studies, IBD and circadian rhythms have been shown to influence each other. Further research is needed to understand the exact mechanisms and to develop potential rhythm-related therapies to improve IBD.

Influence of Fasting until Noon (Extended Postabsorptive State) on Clock Gene mRNA Expression and Regulation of Body Weight and Glucose Metabolism

The trend of fasting until noon (omission or delayed breakfast) is increasingly prevalent in modern society. This eating pattern triggers discordance between endogenous circadian clock rhythms and the feeding/fasting cycle and is associated with an increased incidence of obesity and T2D. Although the underlying mechanism of this association is not well understood, growing evidence suggests that fasting until noon, also known as an "extended postabsorptive state", has the potential to cause a deleterious effect on clock gene expression and to disrupt regulation of body weight, postprandial and overall glycemia, skeletal muscle protein synthesis, and appetite, and may also lead to lower energy expenditure. This manuscript overviews the clock gene-controlled glucose metabolism during the active and resting phases and the consequences of postponing until noon the transition from postabsorptive to fed state on glucose metabolism, weight control, and energy expenditure. Finally, we will discuss the metabolic advantages of shifting more energy, carbohydrates (CH), and proteins to the early hours of the day.

Bionanotechnology in Agriculture: A One Health Approach

Healthy eating habits are one of the requirements for the health of society. In particular, in natura foods are increasingly encouraged, since they have a high concentration of nutrients. However, these foods are often grown in the presence of agrochemicals, such as fertilizers and pesticides. To increase crop productivity and achieve high vigor standards in less time, farmers make excessive use of agrochemicals that generate various economic, environmental, and clinical problems. In this way, bionanotechnology appears as an ally in developing technologies to improve planting conditions, ranging from the health of farmers and consumers to the production of new foods and functional foods. All these improvements are based on the better use of land use in synergy with the lowest generation of environmental impacts and the health of living beings, with a view to the study and production of technologies that take into account the concept of One Health in its processes and products. In this review article, we will address how caring for agriculture can directly influence the quality of the most desired foods in contemporary society, and how new alternatives based on nanotechnology can point to efficient and safe solutions for living beings on our planet.

Chrononutrition behavior during the COVID-19 pandemic and its relationship with body weight among college students

Introduction

Students in colleges are exposed to unhealthy lifestyles and poor dietary choices. They are at risk of being overweight, skipping meals, and developing eating disorders. However, there is a paucity of information on their chrononutrition behavior, which is very important, especially concerning the timing of food consumption across the day. Therefore, the present study aimed to investigate chrononutrition behavior and its potential association with body weight status among college students in Malaysia.

Methods

This cross-sectional study was conducted on 409 college students aged above 18 in Malaysia. The chrononutrition behavior was assessed using the validated Chrononutrition Profile Questionnaire (CP-Q). The questionnaire was distributed using an online platform. Participants self-reported their body weight and height, and the Body Mass Index (BMI) was computed. Data were analyzed using the SPSS software.

Results

A total of 409 participants were recruited, with a mean age of 21.5 ± 2.2 years. The prevalence of underweight, normal, and overweight was 24.7, 49.4, and 25.9%, respectively. The chrononutrition behavior revealed that participants ate breakfast about four times/week (mean 4.27 ± 2.43 days), and only 135 (33.0%) consumed breakfast daily. The largest meal consumed was during lunch (75.8%), and the mean of snacking after the last meal was 3.23 ± 2.01 days. The prevalence of night eating was low, and most participants (70.9) did not wake up at night to eat. The frequency, however, was significantly higher in the underweight group compared to the normal weight group (p < 0.05). We observed a significant association between BMI and eating window, evening latency, evening eating, and night eating. It was found that the underweight had a poor eating window (p < 0.01), poor evening latency (p < 0.01), poor evening eating (p < 0.01), and poor night eating (p < 0.05) compared to those with normal and overweight BMI groups. In contrast to predictions, poor chrononutrition behavior was more likely to predict being underweight compared to normal (p < 0.05).

Conclusion

Underweight young adults are more likely to have poor chrononutrition behavior. The results of the present study suggest that future nutrition education should also focus on the chrononutrition behavior of college students.

A Skeletal Muscle-Centric View on Time-Restricted Feeding and Obesity under Various Metabolic Challenges in Humans and Animals

Nearly 50% of adults will suffer from obesity in the U.S. by 2030. High obesity rates can lead to high economic and healthcare burdens in addition to elevated mortality rates and reduced health span in patients. Emerging data demonstrate that obesity is a multifactorial complex disease with various etiologies including aging, a lifestyle of chronic high-fat diets (HFD), genetic predispositions, and circadian disruption. Time-restricted feeding/eating (TRF; TRE in humans) is an intervention demonstrated by studies to show promise as an effective alternative therapy for ameliorating the effects of obesity and metabolic disease. New studies have recently suggested that TRF/TRE modulates the skeletal muscle which plays a crucial role in metabolism historically observed to be impaired under obesity. Here we discuss recent findings regarding potential mechanisms underlying TRF's modulation of skeletal muscle function, metabolism, and structure which may shed light on future research related to TRF as a solution to obesity.

Are We Ready to Implement Circadian Hygiene Interventions and Programs?

Circadian hygiene, a concept not to be confused with the notion of public or social hygiene, should be discussed among experts and society. Light-dark cycles and other possible synchronizers of the human circadian timing system affect ways of life, including sleeping, eating, working and physical activity. Some of these behaviors have also been investigated individually as synchronizers (e.g., eating times). Therefore, the knowledge held today about circadian rhythms, and their implications for health, allows future perspectives in this field to be mapped. The present article summarizes the latest knowledge on factors influencing circadian rhythms to discuss a perspective for the future of health promotion based on circadian hygiene. However, it is important to highlight that circadian hygiene is the product of an imbrication of individual and societal involvement. First, it is important to adopt practices and devise public health policies in line with circadian hygiene. Second, individual healthy habits require internal rhythms to be examined. Last, the research agenda on circadian hygiene can be developed on a public as well as individual level, raising the question as to how much society is willing to embrace this change.

Alternate day fasting and time-restricted feeding may confer similar neuroprotective effects during aging in male rats

Age associated neurodegenerative changes are acknowledged to play a causative role in a majority of neurological diseases that accompany aging in organisms. To alleviate the deteriorative effects of aging in the brain, we investigated the effects oftwo types of intermittent fasting (IF) methods: alternate day fasting (ADF) and time- restricted feeding (TRF) in young (3 months) and old (24 months) in male Wistar rats comparing the results with age matched controls. The evaluation of biomarkers of oxidative stress showed significant decline in the old (ADF and TRF) groups in addition to up regulation in antioxidant levels. It was observed that ADF and TRF methods helped reduce ROS accumulation in the mitochondria and increased the activity of the electron transport chain complexes especially C-I and III. Gene expression analysis of autophagy genes like beclin and LC3B showed upregulated expression in ADF and TRF group. Sirtuin1 expression too significantly increased during fasting in both young and old groups showing fasting induced protection from aging. Histological analysis of sections of cerebral cortex and CA1 area provide evidence that fasting protected neurons against degeneration with age. Our results prompt us to conclude that the efficacy of these fasting methods ADF and TRF are reliable anti- aging strategies with respect to dietary restriction interventions. Moreover, both these methods compete closely in conferring protection from oxidative stress and inducing neuroprotective changes in brain of aged rats when compared to their young counterparts.

Integration of Time-Based Recommendations with Current Pediatric Health Behavior Guidelines: Implications for Obesity Prevention and Treatment in Youth

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Youth-onset obesity is associated with negative health outcomes across the lifespan including cardiovascular diseases, type 2 diabetes, obstructive sleep apnea, dyslipidemias, asthma, and several cancers. Pediatric health guidelines have traditionally focused on the quality and quantity of dietary intake, physical activity, and sleep.

RECENT FINDINGS

Emerging evidence suggests that the timing (time of day when behavior occurs) and composition (proportion of time spent allocated to behavior) of food intake, movement (i.e., physical activity, sedentary time), and sleep may independently predict health trajectories and disease risks. Several theoretically driven interventions and conceptual frameworks feature behavior timing and composition (e.g., 24 h movement continuum, circadian science and chronobiology, intermittent fasting regimens, structured day hypothesis). These literatures are, however, disparate, with little crosstalk across disciplines. In this review, we examine dietary, sleep, and movement guidelines and recommendations for youths ages 0-18 in the context of theoretical models and empirical findings in support of time-based approaches. The review aims to inform a unifying framework of health behaviors and guide future research on the integration of time-based recommendations into current quantity and quality-based health guidelines for children and adolescents.

Role of Circadian Clock on the Pathogenesis and Lifestyle Management in Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease

Several features of the modern lifestyle, such as weekly schedules or irregular daily eating patterns, have become major drivers of global health problems, including non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Sleep is an essential component of human well-being, and it has been observed that when circadian rhythms are disrupted, or when sleep quality decreases, an individual's overall health may worsen. In addition, the discrepancy between the circadian and social clock, due to weekly work/study schedules, is called social jetlag and has also been associated with adverse metabolic profiles. Current management of NAFLD is based on dietary intake and physical activity, with circadian preferences and other environmental factors also needing to be taken into account. In this regard, dietary approaches based on chrononutrition, such as intermittent fasting or time-restricted feeding, have proven to be useful in realigning lifestyle behaviors with circadian biological rhythms. However, more studies are needed to apply these dietary strategies in the treatment of these patients. In this review, we focus on the impact of circadian rhythms and the role of sleep patterns on the pathogenesis and development of NAFLD, as well as the consideration of chrononutrition for the precision nutrition management of patients with NAFLD.

Does Timing Matter? A Narrative Review of Intermittent Fasting Variants and Their Effects on Bodyweight and Body Composition

The practice of fasting recently has been purported to have clinical benefits, particularly as an intervention against obesity and its related pathologies. Although a number of different temporal dietary restriction strategies have been employed in practice, they are generally classified under the umbrella term "intermittent fasting" (IF). IF can be stratified into two main categories: (1) intra-weekly fasting (alternate-day fasting/ADF, twice-weekly fasting/TWF) and (2) intra-daily fasting (early time-restricted eating/eTRE and delayed time-restricted eating/dTRE). A growing body of evidence indicates that IF is a viable alternative to daily caloric restriction (DCR), showing effectiveness as a weight loss intervention. This paper narratively reviews the literature on the effects of various commonly used IF strategies on body weight and body composition when compared to traditional DCR approaches, and draws conclusions for their practical application. A specific focus is provided as to the use of IF in combination with regimented exercise programs and the associated effects on fat mass and lean mass.

Effects of Time-Restricted Feeding and Ramadan Fasting on Body Weight, Body Composition, Glucose Responses, and Insulin Resistance: A Systematic Review of Randomized Controlled Trials

Time-restricted feeding (TRF) and Ramadan fasting (RF) have been recently associated with several health outcomes. However, it is not yet clear if they are superior to existing treatments in terms of glucose metabolism, insulin action, and weight loss. This review aims to summarize the current data on the effects of these regimes on body weight, body composition, and glycemia. An electronic search was conducted in PUBMED and SCOPUS databases up to August 2022. Twenty-four records met the inclusion criteria and underwent a risk-of-bias assessment. The main outcomes were: (a) TRF may result in moderate weight loss in individuals with overweight/obesity; when TRF is combined with caloric restriction, weight loss is >5% of the initial body weight, (b) 14 h of fasting may be as effective as 16 h in terms of weight loss, and (c) TRF may lead to improved insulin sensitivity and glycemic responses/variability throughout the day in individuals with overweight/obesity. Concerning RF, only two studies were available and thus, conclusions were not drawn. TRF may be an effective nutritional approach for weight loss, and the amelioration of glycemic control and insulin sensitivity in individuals with overweight/obesity. However, more long-term, well-designed studies are needed.

Global, regional, and national burden of Alzheimer's disease and other dementias, 1990–2019

Background

With the increase in the aging population worldwide, Alzheimer's disease has become a rapidly increasing public health concern. Monitoring the dementia disease burden will support health development strategies by providing scientific data.

Methods

Based on the data obtained from the 2019 Global Burden of Disease (GBD) database, the numbers and age-standardized rates (ASRs) of incidence, prevalence, death, and disability-adjusted life-years (DALYs) of Alzheimer's disease and other dementias from 1990 to 2019 were analyzed. Calculated estimated annual percentage changes (EAPCs) and Joinpoint regression analyses were performed to evaluate the trends during this period. We also evaluated the correlations between the epidemiology and the sociodemographic index (SDI), an indicator to evaluate the level of social development in a country or region considering the education rate, economic situation, and total fertility rate.

Results

From 1990 to 2019, the incidence and prevalence of Alzheimer's disease and other dementias increased by 147.95 and 160.84%, respectively. The ASR of incidence, prevalence, death, and DALYs in both men and women consistently increased over the study period. All the ASRs in women were consistently higher than those in men, but the increases were more pronounced in men. In addition, the ASRs of incidence, prevalence, and DALYs were positively correlated with the SDI. Moreover, the proportion of patients over 70 years old with dementia was also positively correlated with the SDI level. Smoking was a major risk factor for the disease burden of dementia in men, while obesity was the major risk factor for women.

Conclusion

From 1990 to 2019, the Alzheimer's disease burden increased worldwide. This trend was more serious in high-SDI areas, especially among elderly populations in high-SDI areas, who should receive additional attention. Policy-makers should take steps to reverse this situation. Notably, women were at a higher risk for the disease, but the risk in men showed a faster increase. We should give attention to the aging population, attach importance to interventions targeting dementia risk factors, and formulate action plans to address the increasing incidence of dementia.

A Bibliometric and Visualization Analysis of Intermittent Fasting

CiteSpace software was utilized to visually analyze the literature on intermittent fasting from Web of Science from 2000 to 2020 in order to reveal the current status, research hotspots and emerging trends of intermittent fasting. The results show that: (1) intermittent fasting research results are increasing year by year; (2) the United States is at the core of this field and has a high influence; (3) intermittent fasting research is mainly concentrated in the fields of nutrition, cell biology and kinesiology, which embodies interdisciplinary characteristics; (4) the literature of Sutton, Mattson and Trepanowski that were published in the same period have the highest co-citation frequencies, however, their research perspectives are quite different, reflecting that the research in this field is still in a state of continuous development; (5) from the perspective of citation bursts, the evolution of research hotspots in this field in the last 20 years can be divided into 3 stages; (6) the keyword timeline mapping shows that time restricted feeding is at the forefront of this research field. This study can help researchers explore the field for the first time to quickly grasp the frontiers and obtain more valuable data, thereby providing facilitation for the follow-up research.

Does intermittent fasting impact mental disorders? A systematic review with meta-analysis

Accumulating evidence supports the benefits of intermittent fasting (IF) as a dietary strategy for cardiometabolic health and weight control. However, little is known about the potential implications of IF on mental disorders. The aim of this review was to synthesize evidence regarding the effects of IF on mental disorders (depression, anxiety, and mood state) in the general population. We conducted a systematic search in five databases from inception to January 2022. Randomized and nonrandomized clinical trials (RCTs/nonRCTs) were included. A random effects method was used to pool standardized mean differences (SMDs) and 95% CIs. A total of 14 studies involving 562 individuals were included, of which 8 were RCTs and 6 were nonRCTs. IF showed a moderate and positive effect on depression scores when compared to control groups (SMD: 0.41; 95%CI: 0.05 to 0.76; I2=45%; n = 4). Conversely, within-group analyses did not show any significant effect of IF on anxiety (SMD: 0.10; 95%CI: -0.09 to 0.30; I2=0%; n = 5) or mood state (SMD: 0.14; 95%CI: -0.09 to 0.37; I2=59%; n = 7). IF modalities did not negatively impact mental disorders in the general population. In fact, IF showed a positive influence on diminishing depression scores, and did not modify anxiety or mood.

[Time-restricted eating as a novel strategy for treatment of obesity and it's comorbid conditions]

The article provides a review of the current literature about time-restricted eating (TRE) as a new tool for the treatment of obesity and comorbid conditions. The search for new nutritional strategies in obesity, one of which is TRE, is due to the weak adherence of patients to hypocaloric diets in the long term, as well as the available data on the importance of -desynchronization of food intake with natural circadian rhythms in the development and progression of obesity and cardio--metabolic complications. The article describes the main mechanisms that regulate the circadian rhythms of food intake and nutrient absorption, substantiates the importance of adhering to a physiological diet for maintaining metabolic health. The main part of the review is devoted to reviewing the currently available researches on the effectiveness of various strategies of intermittent energy restriction for weight loss and the correction of metabolic parameters. Potential mechanisms of  the -effect of TRE on health are discussed, including those mediated by an unintentional decrease in caloric intake and changes in eating behavior, and differences in the effectiveness of early and late TRE. The article contains a detailed discussion of the potential problems and contradictions associated with the use of time-restricted eating in clinical practice, namely: the limitations and inconsistencies of the available clinical trials, the lack of data on long-term efficacy and safety, social and psychological limitations that impede the widespread use of TRE.