Publications

Research outputs, reports, policy briefs and knowledge products from KIU scholars and partners.

2025 Faculty of Biomedical Sciences IDOSR JOURNAL OF APPLIED SCIENCES

Circadian Rhythm and Chrononutrition in Glycemic Regulation: A Mini Review IDOSR JOURNAL OF

Atukunda Derrick

The circadian rhythm governs essential physiological processes, including glucose metabolism, insulin secretion, and energy homeostasis. Emerging research reveals that disruptions in circadian rhythms, whether due to shift work, sleep disturbances, or irregular eating patterns, contribute to impaired glycemic control and heightened risk of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Chrononutrition, a field exploring the timing, frequency, and regularity of food intake—has gained recognition for its role in modulating glycemic responses. Aligning eating patterns with endogenous circadian clocks appears to enhance insulin sensitivity, optimize pancreatic βcell function, and reduce postprandial glycemic excursions. This review discusses the molecular and physiological links between circadian biology and glucose regulation, highlights the implications of chrononutrition strategies in preventing and managing T2DM, and provides insights into therapeutic applications. Ultimately, integrating circadian biology into dietary recommendations represents a promising frontier for precision nutrition in metabolic health. Keywords: circadian rhythm, chrononutrition, glycemic regulation, insulin sensitivity, type 2 diabetes