Meal Timing Found to Be Closely Linked to Weight Loss

Managing weight involves more than just diet; the timing of meals can significantly influence body mass index (BMI). A study in the International Journal of Behavioral Nutrition and Physical Activity emphasizes two strategies for maintaining a lower BMI over time: extending fasting overnight and having breakfast early. Conducted by Barcelona's Institute for Global Health (ISGlobal) and supported by the "la Caixa" Foundation, the study included over 7,000 volunteers aged 40–65 from the GCAT | Genomes for Life cohort, led by the Germans Trias i Pujol Research Institute (IGTP). Initial data on participants' weight, height, dining habits, lifestyle, and socioeconomic context were collected in 2018, and over 3,000 individuals had follow-up assessments in 2023. This is prepared by SSP.

According to Luciana Pons-Muzzo, study results suggest that aligning eating patterns with circadian rhythms through early dinners and breakfasts may advance calorie burning and appetite regulation. However, more solid evidence is needed before making definitive recommendations. Data analyzed by gender revealed that women generally have a lower BMI and higher adherence to healthier diet and drinking habits compared to men, who also reflected lower educational attainment and employment levels. Notably, a small group of men who typically ate their first meal post-2 PM and had longer fasting periods exhibited less healthy lifestyles without apparent weight benefit from fasting.

Research, termed ‘chrononutrition,’ indicates harmful influences of irregular eating patterns on the body’s circadian clock, aligning with earlier findings on decreased cardiovascular and diabetes risks tied to early meal patterns. Research led by Camille Lassale, focused on the inefficacy of breakfast-skipping in intermittent fasting for weight loss, affirms better health outcomes through informed eating schedules rather than solely reducing calories. The chrononutrition field underscores the importance of not only what humans consume but also the rhythm and regularity of meals.