Body Clocks and Energy Use in Rodents

Circadian rhythmicity influences all aspects of energy metabolism.

• Circadian rhythms are regulated by a network of internal clocks, including the main clock in the hypothalamus.
• Meal timing serves as a synchronizer for peripheral clocks, while the main clock is influenced by light.
• Certain dietary conditions may alter the functioning of the main circadian clock.
• Animal models indicate that obesity and diabetes are associated with circadian rhythm disruptions.
• Disturbances in circadian rhythms can lead to deregulated lipid and glucose metabolism.
• Preventive or therapeutic strategies may involve dietary interventions that combine timed meals with specific food compositions.

Simplified