Association between dietary circadian rhythms and metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease risk

Irregular or late eating patterns have been increasingly associated with a higher risk of developing metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD), which stands as the most prevalent hepatic disorder globally. These eating habits are believed to disrupt the body’s circadian rhythm, a critical factor involved in regulating lipid metabolism and insulin sensitivity. Such disruptions can lead to metabolic imbalances that may contribute to the development of MASLD. Despite the potential significance of meal timing in relation to MASLD, there has been a notable lack of comprehensive studies exploring this connection in depth. This gap in research underscores the need for a more detailed examination of how meal frequency and timing might influence the risk of developing this liver condition. The present study was undertaken to address this gap by reviewing existing literature on the association between meal frequency and timing and the risk of MASLD. Through this review, we aimed to provide a clearer understanding of whether specific eating patterns, such as late eating or skipping breakfast, could contribute to an elevated risk of MASLD. In summary, the evidence reviewed in our study highlights the importance of regular and appropriately timed meals in maintaining metabolic health and potentially reducing the risk of MASLD. This underscores the need for further research to fully elucidate the mechanisms behind these associations and to develop dietary guidelines that can help prevent the onset of MASLD through better management of meal timing and frequency.