Abstract:
This study evaluated the association between meal times and distribution of food consumption throughout the day on anthropometric parameters, food choices and potential metabolic effects from a chrononutritional perspective. A literature review was conducted, and 14 scientific documents were selected, involving adults and elderly individuals with different characteristics and stages of life, using quantitative and qualitative approaches to collect data on food consumption, sleep and meal times and anthropometric and metabolic parameters. The results demonstrated that the distribution of food consumption throughout the day can influence body weight and thequality of food choices, showing that meals at later times can negatively impact metabolism. In addition, methods for assessing food intake from a more in-depth chrononutritional perspective were presented, contributing to the understanding of the interactions between food and biological rhythms. The findings suggest that considering meal times is essential for the development of effective nutritional assessments and interventions, offering new perspectives for the nutritionist's work in health promotion.
