Timing of daily calorie loading affects appetite and hunger responses without changes in energy metabolism in healthy subjects with obesity.

Cell metabolism. 2022;34(10):1472-1485.e6
Full text from:

Plain language summary

Recent research has shown that the time of the day when a larger meal is consumed may influence energy utilisation, positively affecting weight loss. This randomised, crossover, isocaloric and eucaloric controlled feeding trial compared morning-loaded calorie intake with evening-loaded calorie intake to assess its effects on weight and metabolism. Thirty healthy, overweight, or obese individuals participated in this study for four weeks and assessed their energy intake and energy expenditure. Based on the findings of this study, there were no discernible variations in either resting metabolic rate or total energy expenditure based on the timing of energy intake. Morning loaded diet can significantly lower hunger and improve satiety compared to the evening-loaded diet. Because of these effects, a morning-loaded diet may aid weight loss through behavioural adaptations. Healthcare professionals can use the results of this study to understand the benefits of morning-loaded calorie intake in terms of hunger suppression and increased satiety which may promote weight loss through behavioural change. Further robust studies are required to evaluate the metabolic outcomes and energy metabolism followed by morning-loaded energy intake and evening-loaded energy intake.

Abstract

Morning loaded calorie intake in humans has been advocated as a dietary strategy to improve weight loss. This is also supported by animal studies suggesting time of eating can prevent weight gain. However, the underlying mechanisms through which timing of eating could promote weight loss in humans are unclear. In a randomized crossover trial (NCT03305237), 30 subjects with obesity/overweight underwent two 4-week calorie-restricted but isoenergetic weight loss diets, with morning loaded or evening loaded calories (45%:35%:20% versus 20%:35%:45% calories at breakfast, lunch, and dinner, respectively). We demonstrate no differences in total daily energy expenditure or resting metabolic rate related to the timing of calorie distribution, and no difference in weight loss. Participants consuming the morning loaded diet reported significantly lower hunger. Thus, morning loaded intake (big breakfast) may assist with compliance to weight loss regime through a greater suppression of appetite.

Lifestyle medicine

Fundamental Clinical Imbalances : Hormonal ; Structural
Patient Centred Factors : Mediators/Timing of energy intake
Environmental Inputs : Diet ; Nutrients ; Psychosocial influences
Personal Lifestyle Factors : Nutrition ; Psychological
Functional Laboratory Testing : Blood

Methodological quality

Jadad score : 3
Allocation concealment : No

Metadata