COMPREHENSIVE ASSESSMENT OF CIRCADIAN RHYTHM DISRUPTION ON NUTRITIONAL STATUS, PHYSICAL ACTIVITY LEVELS, DEPRESSION AND FOOD CRAVİNGS AMONG SHİFT-WORKİNG NURSES

Authors : Busra Kilic, Selen Müftüoğlu, Pınar Gobel

Pages : 703-717

View : 33 | Download : 126

Publication Date : 2025-12-24

Article Type : Research Paper

Abstract :This study aimed to investigate how circadian rhythm differences impact nurses\\\' nutritional status, physical activity, food cravings, and depression, focusing on variations by shift type. This descriptive study, conducted by Gazi University from October to December 2022, included 150 shift-working nurses aged 20-45. Data collection covered demographic information, anthropometric measurements, and assessments of chronotype, food cravings, and depression using standardized questionnaires. These tools evaluated the participants\\\' nutritional status, physical activity, and psychological well-being in relation to their shift work patterns. Nurses on the 16:00-08:00 shifts had regular meal times linked to their chronotype (p<0.05). Different chronotypes had significantly different BMI values (p<0.05), with morning chronotypes having a lower mean BMI. Chronotype did not significantly affect exercise habits (X²:12.66; p=0.12). A significant correlation was found between chronotype and excessive food cravings (p<0.05), with evening chronotypes reporting higher cravings. BDI scores varied significantly by chronotype (p<0.05), with evening types showing higher depression levels. There was also a significant correlation between shift work and evening protein consumption (p<0.05). Intermediate chronotypes showed significant associations between shift work and intake of fat, vitamin C, and magnesium (p<0.05). Shift work significantly affects nurses\\\' meal times and is linked to higher depression scores in evening chronotypes. Hospitals should offer easily digestible, balanced meals and promote workplace exercise and nutrition training. Future research should explore the timing of energy intake, gender differences, and include larger sample sizes.
Keywords : Sirkadiyen ritim, hemşireler, vardiyalı çalışma, aşırı besin isteği, depresyon

ORIGINAL ARTICLE URL