How overnight nutrition affects sleep and circadian rhythms in ICU patients

The impact of overnight nutrition support on sleep and circadian rhythm disruption in the ICU

['FUNDING_OTHER'] · MASSACHUSETTS GENERAL HOSPITAL · NIH-11061889

This study is looking at whether giving patients in the ICU their meals during the day instead of at night can help them sleep better and feel healthier after heart surgery.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_OTHER']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorMASSACHUSETTS GENERAL HOSPITAL (nih funded)
Locations1 site (BOSTON, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11061889 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates the effects of overnight nutrition support on sleep quality and circadian rhythms in critically ill patients in the ICU. It aims to determine whether providing nutrition during the day instead of at night can improve sleep and reduce inflammation and cardiometabolic issues. By using actigraphy to monitor sleep patterns and other biomarkers, the study seeks to enhance recovery outcomes for patients undergoing cardiac surgery. The findings could lead to better nutritional practices in ICU settings.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are postoperative cardiac ICU patients who require nutrition support.

Not a fit: Patients who are not in the ICU or do not require nutrition support may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly improve sleep quality and recovery outcomes for ICU patients.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that optimizing nutrition timing can positively impact sleep and metabolic health, suggesting potential success for this approach.

Where this research is happening

BOSTON, UNITED STATES

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.