Summary
- Published in the journal Communications Medicine the study examined how changes in weekend routines particularly meal timing may be linked to the risk of heart disease.
- According to the study men who changed their meal times significantly between weekdays and weekends had a higher risk of developing heart disease.
- A 14% to 21% higher risk in men The researchers found that large differences in meal timing between regular days and weekends were associated with a 14% to 21% higher risk of heart disease among men.
Weekends often bring changes to our daily routine. People may sleep longer meet friends and eat their meals at different times than they do during the week.
A new study has looked at whether these changes in eating schedules could affect heart health.
Published in the journal Communications Medicine the study examined how changes in weekend routines particularly meal timing may be linked to the risk of heart disease.
Study Analysed More Than 104,000 People. Researchers analysed health and dietary data from more than 104,000 people.
They examined the relationship between eating habits and heart disease and followed the participants for more than eight years.
The findings showed some differences between men and women. While no clear link was found among women the connection was more noticeable in men.
According to the study men who changed their meal times significantly between weekdays and weekends had a higher risk of developing heart disease.
Why meal timing may matter
Researchers said the findings suggest that keeping meal times relatively consistent throughout the week could play a role in heart health.
The association remained even after researchers considered factors such as sleep duration and diet quality.
However the researchers stressed that the findings are not yet conclusive and that more studies are needed.
A 14% to 21% higher risk in men
The researchers found that large differences in meal timing between regular days and weekends were associated with a 14% to 21% higher risk of heart disease among men.
They said the link remained even after taking several other factors into account.
Weekend routine and the body Clock
Researchers explained that changing eating patterns on weekends has become common. Such changes may affect the body’s internal clock also known as the circadian rhythm.
Disruptions to this natural rhythm may place additional stress on the body including the heart. Previous research has also suggested that maintaining a regular sleep schedule may help reduce the risk of several health problems.
The new findings indicate that keeping meal times more consistent could also be important for heart health.
More research is needed to understand whether maintaining regular meal times can directly help lower the risk of heart disease.
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