Time‑restricted eating in shift workers: a systematic review and meta‑analysis
Summary
This systematic review and meta-analysis pooled results from small clinical trials testing time-restricted eating (TRE) in shift-working populations. Most interventions limited food intake to a fixed daily window of around 8–10 hours, often scheduled during the daytime. Across studies, TRE was associated with improved glucose regulation, reduced fasting insulin, and modest weight benefits compared with unrestricted eating. However, effects varied depending on study length and design, and the evidence base is still limited.
Why It Matters For Night Shift Workers and Night Owls
Managing blood sugar is a major challenge for people working nights, and this review suggests that when meals are eaten may be just as important as what is eaten. TRE shows early promise for helping night-shift workers stabilize metabolism and reduce health risks, even without major dietary changes. For those living on night schedules, it highlights meal timing as a practical, evidence-based lever for better long-term health.