Mediterranean diet is associated with a shift toward a more morning-oriented chronotype in female patients with relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis
In a 12-week randomized pilot trial, 34 female patients with relapsing-remitting MS were assigned to either a Mediterranean diet (MedDiet) or time-restricted eating (TRE). MEQ scores increased only in the MedDiet group (p = 0.035), suggesting a shift toward morningness, while PSQI scores improved over time in both groups without a diet-specific effect. No significant changes were observed in appetite-related hormones (leptin, ghrelin).
This article is automatically generated from the structured evidence profile behind the claim above. Scores reflect the quality and quantity of available research, not clinical advice.
Mediterranean diet is associated with a shift toward a more morning-oriented chronotype in female patients with relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis The current body of evidence comprises 1 study, including 1 randomized controlled trial. EvidenceHub rates the overall confidence at 44/100 (low).
The Claim
Mediterranean diet is associated with a shift toward a more morning-oriented chronotype in female patients with relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis
This conclusion is most relevant to: 34 female patients with relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis.
What the Research Shows
The conclusion draws on 1 linked study. Highlights from the cited literature:
- ▸Mediterranean Diet vs. Time-Restricted Eating: Effects on Circadian Rhythm and Appetite Markers in Female Patients with Multiple Sclerosis-A Pilot Study. (Healthcare (Basel, Switzerland), 2026) —
How It Works
The proposed biological pathway:
- ▸MedDiet may influence circadian rhythm via nutrient timing and composition
- ▸Improved dietary patterns may affect clock gene expression or light-dark entrainment
- ▸Reduced inflammation or metabolic improvements may support circadian alignment
- ▸Result: Shift toward morning-oriented chronotype (higher MEQ score)
Who Might Benefit
Evidence fit by population:
- ▸34 female patients with relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis
Recommended Dose
N/A
Limitations & Caveats
Important context when interpreting this evidence:
- ▸Small sample size (n=17 per group) and pilot design
- ▸No correction for multiple comparisons for MEQ and lipid findings; lipid changes did not survive correction
- ▸No significant changes in sleep quality or appetite hormones, limiting overall conclusions
- ▸Short duration (12 weeks) may not capture long-term effects
Frequently Asked Questions
Did the Mediterranean diet improve sleep quality in MS patients?▼
No significant improvement in sleep quality (PSQI) was attributed to the Mediterranean diet; PSQI improved over time in both groups, but the effect was not diet-specific.
What is the 16:8 time-restricted eating protocol?▼
It involves eating all meals within an 8-hour window and fasting for the remaining 16 hours each day. In this study, it was eucaloric to maintain baseline weight.
Did either diet affect appetite hormones?▼
No significant changes in leptin or ghrelin levels were observed in either group after 12 weeks.
What does a higher MEQ score indicate?▼
A higher MEQ score indicates a more morning-oriented chronotype (i.e., preferring to be active earlier in the day). The Mediterranean diet group showed a significant increase in MEQ scores.
References
- 1.İnbaşı EG, Çakır Biçer N, İşcan D, Bayram E, Türker PF. “Mediterranean Diet vs. Time-Restricted Eating: Effects on Circadian Rhythm and Appetite Markers in Female Patients with Multiple Sclerosis-A Pilot Study..” Healthcare (Basel, Switzerland), 2026. PMID: 42588234 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare14152266