Observational Study on the Relationship between Timing of Energy Intake and Obesity among University Students in Islamabad, Pakistan

Abstract

Background: Obesity has become an increasingly pressing global health issue, and recent research indicates that both the amount and timing of energy consumption play crucial roles in weight management. The concept of chrononutrition illustrates how the timing of calorie distribution throughout the day can influence metabolic functions and the risk of obesity.
Objective: This study sought to explore the relationship between the timing of daily energy intake and obesity among university students in Islamabad, Pakistan.
Methods: A cross-sectional observational study was conducted at Riphah International University, Islamabad. A total of 100 enthusiastic students aged 18–30 years were selected through convenient sampling. We evaluated eating patterns and meal schedules through a reliable Food Frequency Questionnaire (FFQ) and gathered anthropometric data, such as Body Mass Index (BMI). We categorized caloric consumption into six segments: morning (6:00–8:59 AM), late morning (9:00–11:29 AM), noon (11:30 AM–1:29 PM), afternoon (1:30–5:29 PM), evening (5:30–8:29 PM), and night (8:30 PM–4:59 AM). We utilized Chi-square tests to explore the connections between BMI classifications and the timing of energy consumption.
Results: A noteworthy connection was identified between the timing of energy consumption and BMI levels (p = 0.006). Increased caloric intake during the evening hours (p = 0.029) showed a positive correlation with being overweight and obese. In contrast, a higher intake of energy in the morning was linked to a lower BMI (p = 0.031). No significant links were found for late morning, noon, afternoon, or evening consumption.
Conclusion: The evidence indicates that when energy is consumed, especially in the evening, it is significantly related to a higher BMI. Morning calorie consumption seems to provide a protective effect against obesity. These findings underscore the importance of not only focusing on overall caloric intake but also considering the timing of meals in efforts to prevent obesity among young adults.