Meal timing, particularly delayed eating schedules, has been linked to higher rates of depression and anxiety, especially among shift workers. A study published in Jama Network found that delayed meals, long eating windows, and delayed dinner were associated with increased risks of depression and anxiety. Breakfast after 9 a.m. and dinner after 8 p.m. were linked to higher risks of depression and anxiety, regardless of work shift. On the other hand, restricting meals to a 12-hour window per day was associated with lower risks of anxiety and depression. The exact mechanism behind this link is not clear, but researchers suggest it may be related to disruptions in the body’s circadian rhythm. The study emphasizes the importance of meal timing in maintaining good mental health, particularly for shift workers.
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