Chronotype and its Association With Weight Status and Dietary Patterns Among Tunisian Female University Students

Mar 13, 2026American journal of lifestyle medicine

Sleep Timing and Its Links to Weight and Eating Habits in Tunisian Female University Students

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Abstract

Among 80 Tunisian female university students, 30% identified as evening chronotypes.

Evening chronotypes had a significantly higher body mass index (BMI) of 27.01 ± 5.26 kg/m and body fat percentage of 27 ± 4.25%.
Those with evening preferences exhibited delayed meal timing and lower levels of physical activity.
Participants with an evening chronotype consumed breakfast less regularly and had longer meal durations.
Higher fast food intake was associated with evening chronotypes.
Evening chronotypes showed increased rates of eating disorders and sleep disturbances.
Excessive intake of energy, carbohydrates, lipids, and proteins was noted among evening chronotypes.

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Circadian clocks regulate physiological rhythms based on light, food intake, and fasting. Disruptions to these clocks are associated with health problems. Chronotype, reflecting individual circadian preferences, is influenced by sleep and eating habits, especially in students. This study aimed to determine the chronotype of Tunisian female university students and examine its relationship with weight status, nutritional status, and eating disorders. A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted with 80 female university students. Participants completed questionnaires assessing general characteristics, physical activity, sleep quality (Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index), chronotype (Morning-Evening Questionnaire), eating habits and disorders (Three-Factor Eating Questionnaire), and dietary intake (Nutrilog software). Body composition was measured using bioelectrical impedance analysis. The mean age was 20.85 ± 0.98 years. Chronotype distribution was 22.5% morning, 47.5% intermediate, and 30% evening. Evening chronotypes had significantly higher BMI (27.01 ± 5.26 kg/m) and body fat percentage (27 ± 4.25%) (< .001). They showed delayed meal timing, lower physical activity (= .02), less regular breakfast consumption (< .001), longer meal durations (= .03), and higher fastfood intake (< .001). Additionally, they exhibited increased eating disorders, sleep disturbances (= .003), and excessive energy, carbohydrate, lipid, and protein intake (< .01). Assessing chronotype in students may help detect early health risks. Larger studies and biological assessments are recommended. 2P P P P P P P

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Chronotype and its Association With Weight Status and Dietary Patterns Among Tunisian Female University Students

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