Does a change in main meal time shift biological rhythms?
Friday 5 August 2011
Researchers at the University of Surrey are undertaking a study into the effects of meal times on the body’s biological rhythms.
The aim of the study is to discover whether eating a main meal at different times of day will alter the body’s internal daily (circadian) clock. The results may provide evidence supporting the use of simple dietary interventions to minimise many of the problems associated with e.g. shift work and jet lag.
42 healthy, non-smoking and moderately active men between 20 and 30 years of age are required to take part in two sessions, each of which consists of a 7 day run-in period at home followed by a 6 day laboratory session at the Surrey Clinical Research Centre (SCRC). The two sessions are separated by a two week break. All participants will be compensated for their time spent on the study.
During the home study periods participants will need to maintain a regular sleep and meal routine. While staying at the SCRC saliva, blood and fat samples will be taken at regular intervals, with blood sugar levels and skin temperature being constantly monitored.
The study is funded by the Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council, and has received a favourable ethical opinion from the University of Surrey Ethics Committee.
Jonathan Johnston, Senior Lecturer and lead investigator comments: “This is an extremely exciting study that builds upon our recent advances in human biological rhythm research. We anticipate that the study will help develop a dietary solution to minimise health problems due to shift work and jet lag. The work therefore has the potential to benefit a large section of the population.”
For more information visit http://www.surrey.ac.uk/fab or E:mail Cheryl Isherwood (research technician), c.isherwood@surrey.ac.uk.
Media Enquiries
Peter La, Press Office at the University of Surrey, Tel: +44 (0)1483 689191, or Email mediarelations@surrey.ac.uk
