Mediterranean Diet vs. Time-Restricted Eating: Circadian & Appetite Effects in MS

A recent pilot study found that both the Mediterranean diet and time-restricted eating led to weight loss in women with relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS). However, only the Mediterranean diet was associated with improved sleep quality, highlighting the need for further research in this area.

Dietary Interventions and Study Overview

A clinical trial conducted with 34 women diagnosed with RRMS compared the effects of two dietary approaches: the Mediterranean Diet and time-restricted eating (TRE). Over a 12-week period, participants received tailored dietary guidance. The goal was to investigate how these eating patterns affect sleep-wake cycles and appetite.

Findings Related to Weight Loss and Body Composition

Results indicated that both dietary interventions facilitated weight loss, accompanied by reductions in waist and hip circumferences, which typically signal a decrease in abdominal fat. During the study, participants increased their intake of protein, fiber, and water, suggesting an improvement in overall dietary quality. The Mediterranean diet group also experienced a decrease in cholesterol levels; however, these changes were not statistically significant after accounting for confounding variables.

Impact on Sleep Quality and Circadian Rhythm

Only participants following the Mediterranean diet reported significant improvements in their sleep quality, as assessed by the Morningness and Eveningness Sleep Questionnaire (MEQ). Higher MEQ scores indicate a tendency towards being more active in the morning. The TRE group did not show significant changes in sleep measures, pointing to a potential advantage of the Mediterranean diet when it comes to sleep-related outcomes. Despite these findings, other sleep measures and levels of hunger-related hormones remained unchanged in both groups.

Limitations and Future Research Directions

The authors of the study emphasized that conclusions should be drawn cautiously due to the small sample size and the short duration of the study. The absence of a control group that did not receive dietary intervention also limits the strength of the findings. Additional research is needed with larger cohorts and longer follow-up periods to better understand the long-term effects of these diets on both metabolic and circadian parameters in individuals with MS.

THE CNP TAKEAWAY

Both the Mediterranean diet and time-restricted eating may assist with weight management in women with RRMS. Yet, only the Mediterranean diet showed measurable improvements in sleep quality, suggesting more comprehensive studies are warranted.

Images courtesy of Shutterstock.

This article was prepared by CNP based on the news article entitled “Pilot study compares effects of 2 diet plans on sleep and appetite in MS,” authored by Marisa Horak, MS. Read the original news article on multiplesclerosisnewstoday.com or find the original study in the Diet, Disease and Mental Health research category in the NPRL.