Association of chrono-nutrition behaviors with cognitive function in middle-aged and older adults

Chrono-nutrition, as a new branch of nutritional science, examines the health implications of meal timing, frequency, regularity and its coordination with circadian rhythms. Emerging studies highlight the pivotal role of chrono-nutrition behaviors on aging, yet the associations with cognitive function remain inconclusive. Information on chrono-nutrition behaviors was assessed using validated questionnaires.

The global and domain-specific cognition were evaluated using a battery of neuropsychological tests. Linear and logistic regression models were employed to assess the associations. False discovery rates (FDRs) were controlled using multiple-comparison corrections.

Greater eating frequency and snacks were associated with worse global cognition and poorer memory. With respect to meal timing, nighttime eating (β = −0.21, 95% CI: −0.33 ~ −0.09, FDR-P = 0.004) and prolonged eating windows (β = −0.29, 95% CI: −0.38 ~ −0.21, FDR-P