A Review on Circadian Rhythms and Meal Timing
Chapter from the book: Kırbaş, A. (ed.) 2025. Current Research in Social Sciences.

Fatma Koç
Siirt University

Synopsis

The aim of this review is to examine the relationship between circadian rhythms and meal timing, considering their effects on human health and metabolism. The human body possesses a circadian clock that operates on approximately 24-hour biological rhythms, regulating numerous physiological processes, including the sleep-wake cycle, hormone secretion, metabolism, and energy balance. Proper functioning of the circadian clock positively influences sleep quality, eating habits, and overall health, whereas its disruption can lead to metabolic disorders, obesity, and increased cardiovascular risk. Regarding dietary habits, meal timing, frequency, and regularity play a crucial role in metabolic health. Regular meals help maintain blood glucose levels and energy balance, while irregular eating patterns negatively affect insulin sensitivity, lipid profiles, and weight management. Skipping meals, particularly breakfast, and irregular snacking are associated with higher obesity risk during childhood and adolescence, whereas consistent meal patterns contribute to the maintenance of metabolic health in adults. Meal composition is also important; consumption of whole grains, fiber, and protein-rich foods enhances satiety and exerts beneficial effects on energy regulation. This review highlights that understanding the complex interplay between circadian rhythms and meal timing is critical for developing healthy eating habits and mitigating metabolic risks. Aligning eating patterns with biological rhythms supports not only short-term energy management but also long-term health outcomes.

How to cite this book

Koç, F. (2025). A Review on Circadian Rhythms and Meal Timing. In: Kırbaş, A. (ed.), Current Research in Social Sciences. Özgür Publications. DOI: https://doi.org/10.58830/ozgur.pub916.c3831

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Published

October 21, 2025

DOI