How the timing of eating affects metabolism

Effect of temporal distribution of macronutrient intake on metabolism

['FUNDING_R01'] · BRIGHAM AND WOMEN'S HOSPITAL · NIH-10885097

This study is looking at how when you eat carbs and fats can affect your health, especially for night shift workers who might have trouble because their eating times don’t match their body’s natural clock, and it aims to find helpful eating schedules to improve their metabolism.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorBRIGHAM AND WOMEN'S HOSPITAL (nih funded)
Locations1 site (BOSTON, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10885097 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates how changing the timing of macronutrient intake, specifically carbohydrates and fats, influences metabolic health markers. It focuses on vulnerable groups, such as night shift workers, who may experience health issues due to misalignment between their eating patterns and their body's natural circadian rhythms. By analyzing how glucose tolerance and insulin sensitivity vary with different eating schedules, the study aims to develop practical dietary recommendations that could improve metabolic health. Participants may be asked to follow specific eating schedules to assess the impact on their metabolic function.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates include night shift workers and individuals at risk for type 2 diabetes due to irregular eating habits.

Not a fit: Patients with stable eating patterns and no risk factors for metabolic disorders may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to dietary strategies that improve metabolic health and reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes for individuals with irregular eating patterns.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results regarding the impact of meal timing on metabolic health, suggesting that this approach could be effective.

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 →

Conditions: Adult-Onset Diabetes Mellitus

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.