Constant-routine protocol reveals an endogenous circadian rhythm in diet-induced thermogenesis with a peak in the biological morning.

MetabolismMay 25, 2026 (epub)
Clinical ResearchEndocrinologyGastroenterologyOpen access

Nina Vujović, Han-Chow E Koh, Su Wei Heng et al.

✦ AI-curated · Sources linked

In 30 seconds

This randomized controlled trial investigated the influence of the endogenous circadian system on diet-induced thermogenesis (DIT) in 16 healthy adults with overweight or obesity. The study found a significant circadian rhythm in DIT, peaking in the biological morning with a peak-to-trough amplitude of 44% (∼10 kcal/4 h), suggesting that meal timing may impact body mass through thermogenic responses.

Key findings

  • The peak-to-trough amplitude of DIT was 44% (∼10 kcal/4 h), peaking in the biological morning.
  • Circadian rhythm in DIT remained significant after adjusting for fasting energy expenditure, with a reduced amplitude of ∼29% (∼7 kcal/4 h).
  • The endogenous circadian rhythm in DIT was unaffected by prior early versus late eating schedules.

Why it matters

Understanding the circadian influences on diet-induced thermogenesis can help elucidate mechanisms linking meal timing to body weight regulation, potentially guiding dietary recommendations for weight management.

Source

Published in Metabolism. This summary was written by xxcode from the publication's abstract and metadata. It is not peer reviewed and is not a substitute for the original article. For clinical decisions, review the original publication.

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