Are 24-hour variations in food intake and subjective food perceptions different between day and night shift workers?

Abstract

Shift workers have an increased likelihood of developing obesity and metabolic disorders, and the dietary intake during nighttime seems to increase the risk of these conditions. Nevertheless, it remains unclear if hunger, food preferences, and satiety differ between night workers and day workers. This study aimed to compare the daily patterns of dietary intake and subjective dietary perceptions among day and night workers. A total of 60 workers participated in this study (30-day workers and 30-night workers). Dietary intake was assessed using a daily food record for a full working day, along with a Numerical Rating Scale (ranging from 0 to 10) used to measure subjective feelings of food satisfaction (appetite, hunger, and satiety) after each meal. Night workers showed a stronger preference for vegetables during the evening snack (p < 0.001) and a greater appetite for meat, eggs, and savory foods during the morning snack (p < 0.001 and p = 0.007, respectively) compared to day workers. In conclusion, night workers demonstrated different food perceptions compared to day workers.