Meal timing modulates energy intake in type 2 diabetes

Research published in ‘European Journal of Clinical Nutrition’ assessed the association between the timing of meals across the day with diet composition and metabolic parameters in patients with type 2 diabetes (T2D). Eighty adults (55.2 ± 6.8 years, 45% males) patients with T2D (without insulin therapy) were included. Three non-consecutive dietary records assessed food intake. The onset time of each consumed meal/beverage was identified and assigned to one of three periods of the day: Period 1 (P1, 06:00–11:59 h), Period 2 (P2, 12:00–17:59 h), and Period 3 (P3, 18:00–00:30 h).

Results showed that energy intake in P1 were lower compared to P2 and P3 (22.8 ± 7.9%, 37.5 ± 9.6%, and 39.7 ± 9.9%, respectively, P < 0.001). The same pattern was seen for total protein and fat intake. Patients with greater daily energy intake (as % of total energy) in P3 showed increased total food consumption, total energy, protein, and fat intake (all P < 0.05). The study concluded that increased energy intake late during the day is related to increased total food and daily energy intake in patients with T2D and earlier food intake may be a nutritional tool for dietary and metabolic control in these patients.

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4. Meal timing modulates energy intake in type 2 diabetes