Young inhabitants of the North with late chronotype and social jetlag consume more high-calorie foods and alcohol

Abstract

Previous research has shown a high prevalence of late chronotype and social jetlag (SJL) among young northerners. These traits are also associated with unhealthy food preferences and greater alcohol consumption. The aim of this study was to analyze the relationships among characteristics of the sleep–wake rhythm and dietary preferences of young residents of the North. The study involved 282 participants from the Komi Republic (53.2% female) aged 18.9 ± 2.8 years old. Participants were asked to provide personal data and to complete two questionnaires: the Munich Chronotype Questionnaire and the Food Frequency Questionnaire. Females reported consuming 1.3 times more oils and fats than boys. Rural residents reported consuming 1.7 times more alcohol than urban residents. University students reported consuming 5.4 times more alcohol than secondary school students, but secondary school students consumed 1.6 and 1.5 times more meat and fruits, respectively. Participants with late chronotype reported consuming more alcohol, and those with a shorter duration of sleep reported consuming more tea and coffee. Respondents with SJL consumed more fats, oils, meat, and alcohol. The results indicate that unhealthy dietary habits of young northerners are more closely associated with SJL than with chronotype or the duration of sleep.

Keywords:

• Social jetlag
• diet
• North