Circadian rhythms, gut microbiota, and diet: Possible implications for health

A desynchronization of circadian rhythms is closely associated with alterations in gut microbiota composition and function.

• More than half of the gut microbiota composition fluctuates rhythmically throughout the day.
• Circadian rhythms may influence gut microbiota, which in turn could affect the host's biological clock.
• Alterations in gut microbiota due to circadian desynchronization are linked to increased risk of various health issues, including cardiovascular disease, cancer, irritable bowel disease, and depression.
• Meal timing and diet quality appear to play a key role in maintaining the balance between circadian rhythms and gut microbiota.
• Short-chain fatty acids produced by gut microbiota may be significant in this relationship.

AI simplified