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2026, Number 3

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Rev Fac Med UNAM 2026; 69 (3)

Chrononutrition: Foundations and applications (right on time to eat)

Quezada MJR, Rojas GA, Gómez VEY, Pérez CD, Ángeles CM

Language: Spanish
References: 19
Page: 7-16
PDF size: 751.12 Kb.


ABSTRACT

Chrononutrition, a branch of clinical chronobiology, studies the relationship between mealtimes and circadian rhythms, and their effects on energy metabolism. Chrononutrition suggests establishing fixed mealtimes, as these have a synchronizing effect on circadian rhythms in general and those of the digestive system in particular. This has been observed in the expression of clock genes in the gut and liver, which are rhythmically expressed in association with digestive processes. Some hormones associated with digestion, such as insulin and adipokines, also vary their circulating levels in response to feeding/fasting cycles, which occur in a pattern dependent on the time of meal. There is a direct relationship between the circadian system and digestive functions; therefore, any circadian disruption caused by inadequate timing signals can lead to impaired nutrient absorption and digestive system dysfunction. It is important to mention that many studies have focused on “what to eat” or “how much to eat” to prevent the development of metabolic diseases; however, few address “when to eat,” which has also proven to be fundamental. In this article, we explore some basic principles for understanding Chrononutrition and establish eating at the same time every day at regular intervals as a healthy practice for maintaining a healthy metabolic state. It is suggested that the timing of meals can be as important as the type of food. Finally, Chrononutrition involves three important aspects: 1) the amount of energy contained in meals, 2) the frequency or number of meals per day, and 3) the time of day when food is consumed.


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