Eating meals early 'reduces heart attack and stroke risk', study finds

Eating meals early 'reduces heart attack and stroke risk', study finds
In a groundbreaking French study published in the journal Nature Communications, researchers have unveiled compelling evidence that the timing of meals can play a crucial role in reducing the risk of heart attack and stroke.

The study, which analyzed data from more than 103,000 participants, reveals that adopting the habit of eating breakfast earlier and avoiding late suppers can contribute to a healthier cardiovascular system.

The study, led by Dr. Bernard Srour from the National Research Institute for Agriculture, Food and Environment (INRAE), found a direct correlation between the timing of meals and the likelihood of developing cardiovascular diseases.

Individuals who consumed their first meal at 9 am were six percent more likely to develop cardiovascular disease compared to those who had breakfast at 8 am.

The research highlighted that eating after 9 pm was associated with a 28 percent increase in the risk of cerebrovascular diseases, such as strokes, in contrast to individuals who consumed their last meal before 8 pm. This association was particularly pronounced in women.

The duration of "night-time fasting," defined as the time between the last meal of the day and the first meal the following day, also emerged as a significant factor. A longer night-time fasting period was linked to a reduced risk of cerebrovascular disease, further emphasizing the importance of meal timing.

Cardiovascular diseases, including heart attacks and strokes, are the leading causes of death worldwide, as reported by the Global Burden of Disease study. Approximately 18.6 million deaths occurred in 2019, with diet contributing to around 7.9 million of those deaths.

Scientists believe that modern Western lifestyle choices, such as eating dinner late or skipping breakfast, have led to detrimental eating habits. The study emphasizes the role of the daily cycle of food intake and fasting in synchronizing the body's various organ clocks, influencing functions like blood pressure regulation.

Dr. Bernard Srour explained: "These findings, which need to be replicated in other cohorts and through additional scientific studies with different designs, highlight a potential role for meal timing in preventing cardiovascular disease. They suggest that adopting the habit of eating earlier first and last meals with a longer period of night-time fasting could help to prevent the risk of cardiovascular disease."

The emerging field of chrononutrition focuses on understanding the relationship between the timing of food intake, circadian rhythms, and overall health.

As the scientific community delves deeper into this field, it may pave the way for personalized dietary recommendations to mitigate cardiovascular risks and promote better health outcomes.