Evening Chronotype May Be Associated with Lower EAT-Lancet Diet Adherence and Higher CRP in People with Obesity: A Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract

Background: The aim of this study is to examine the relationship between the EAT-Lancet dietary model, chronotype, psychological well-being, and metabolic parameters in people with obesity. Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted with 97 people with obesity. A sociodemographic questionnaire was administered to the participants. In addition, anthropometric measurements, biochemical parameters and nutritional status were measured. The Morningness-Eveningness Questionnaire (MEQ) and the Psychological Well-Being Scale (PWBS) were used. Results: EAT-Lancet diet and PWBS scores were lower in evening-type individuals compared to morning-type individuals (p < 0.05). A negative correlation was observed between individuals' C-reactive protein (CRP) levels and their EAT-Lancet diet score and MEQ score (p < 0.05). A significantly positive correlation was found between individuals' MEQ score and their EAT-Lancet diet score (p < 0.05). A significant negative correlation was found between PWBS score and both waist circumference and body mass index (p < 0.05). An increase in the MEQ score was associated with a positive change in the EAT-Lancet diet score (beta = 0.026), while an increase in CRP levels was associated with a negative change in the diet score (beta =-0.112) (p < 0.05). Conclusion: Evening chronotype was associated with lower EAT-Lancet diet scores and higher CRP levels, whereas greater adherence to a healthy and sustainable dietary pattern was observed among individuals with a morning chronotype. (c) 2026 Elsevier Inc. All rights are reserved, including those for text and data mining, AI training, and similar technologies.