Late chronotype has been associated with an increased risk of type 2 diabetes, as well as higher adiposity, according to new data presented at the Annual Meeting of the European Association for the Study of Diabetes. Researchers from Leiden University Medical Center in the Netherlands found that late chronotype is linked to higher waist measurements and fat accumulation on the waist and liver. The study, which analyzed data from almost 5,000 participants without type 2 diabetes, showed that those with a late chronotype had a 55% increased risk of developing the condition over a 6-year follow-up period. This risk was independent of lifestyle factors such as diet quality, physical activity, and smoking.
The research contradicted previous assumptions that the increased risk of type 2 diabetes associated with late chronotype was due to poorer lifestyle habits. Despite adjusting for various lifestyle factors, the association between late chronotype and type 2 diabetes remained significant. Interestingly, the study also showed that individuals with early chronotypes, who go to bed and wake up earlier, had a slightly higher risk of developing type 2 diabetes compared to those with an intermediate chronotype, although this difference was not statistically significant. The researchers believe that circadian misalignment, as well as factors such as eating patterns and food choices, may play a role in the increased metabolic risk seen in individuals with late chronotypes.
Our circadian rhythm, which regulates our sleep-wake cycle and other physiological processes, varies between individuals, leading to the distinction between early birds and night owls. However, society’s adherence to certain timings, such as starting work in the morning, can pose challenges for individuals with late chronotypes. Dr. Maria Knobel, a medical director, highlighted that early chronotypes naturally fit into conventional schedules, which can benefit their metabolic health. In contrast, late chronotypes may experience negative health effects due to societal misalignment, as they are forced to wake up earlier than their bodies prefer, disrupting their natural rhythms.
The study did not investigate the specific mechanisms through which late chronotype increases the risk of type 2 diabetes, but the researchers pointed to circadian misalignment and eating patterns as potential explanations. Late chronotypes, who tend to go to bed later and wake up later, may face challenges in adhering to societal schedules that are geared towards early chronotypes. This mismatch can lead to metabolic disturbances and negative health effects. Overall, the research indicates that late chronotype is independently associated with a higher risk of type 2 diabetes, suggesting that factors beyond lifestyle habits may contribute to this increased risk.
The findings of the study presented at the EASD meeting challenge previous beliefs that the link between late chronotype and type 2 diabetes risk was solely due to lifestyle factors. By analyzing data from a large cohort of participants without type 2 diabetes, the researchers were able to demonstrate an independent association between late chronotype and increased risk of the condition. The study also highlighted the impact of societal norms and schedules on individuals with late chronotypes, who may struggle to adapt to early morning start times and traditional meal patterns.
In conclusion, late chronotype has been associated with an elevated risk of type 2 diabetes, as well as higher adiposity, independent of lifestyle factors. The study findings suggest that late chronotypes may face challenges due to societal schedules that are better suited for early chronotypes, leading to potential metabolic disturbances and negative health effects. Further research is needed to explore the underlying mechanisms through which late chronotype increases the risk of type 2 diabetes, including the role of circadian misalignment and eating patterns. Understanding these factors could help tailor interventions and strategies to support individuals with late chronotypes and reduce their risk of developing type 2 diabetes.
