Chronobiology of Nutrition and Metabolism

The theoretical classes will include a structured presentation of the program content, using multimedia materials, case studies, and scientific articles to deepen the understanding of key concepts. In the theoretical-practical component, emphasis will be placed on the critical analysis
and discussion of scientific articles, as well as the application of theoretical concepts to clinical contexts. In the classroom, students will also be trained in the evaluation and interpretation of questionnaires on eating habits, chronotype determination, and sleep quality, among other
essential tools for the implementation of chrononutrition plans.
This integrative approach will enable students to develop analytical and applied skills, essential for the implementation of chrononutrition strategies.

The evaluation will consist of three main components:
1) Individual assignment – Development of a chrononutrition plan (50%)
o Each student must design a chrononutrition plan for a specific population, based on scientific articles.
o The assignment should include:
? Explanation of the scientific basis of the study and a clear definition of objectives.
? Experimental design, including selected models, inclusion/exclusion criteria, and a clear definition of analyzed variables.
? Discussion of expected results and their contribution to the literature.
o The work will be presented orally in class.
2) Participation in classroom discussions (20%)
o Active engagement in the critical analysis of scientific articles during class.
o Ability to argue, integrate knowledge, and think critically.
3) Written exam (30%)
o Individual written test to assess the knowledge acquired throughout the course.

1) Understand the biological foundations of circadian rhythm and its molecular mechanisms.
2) Understand the circadian regulation of nutrient metabolism and energy balance.
3) Recognize the impact of meal timing, fasting, and chrononutrition strategies on health and metabolic diseases.
4) Develop chrononutrition programs adapted to different populations and clinical contexts, optimizing metabolic health.
5) Critically evaluate studies on chrono-nutrition and metabolism across different models.

1. Chronobiology & Biological Rhythms (3h)
Definition of circadian rhythms
Molecular clock mechanisms
Hormonal regulators of circadian rhythm
2. Circadian Control of Metabolism (4h)
Diurnal variations in energy expenditure
Circadian regulation of glucose and lipid metabolism
Chronobiology of insulin sensitivity and glycemic control
Gut microbiota and circadian rhythms
3. Chrononutrition: Meal Timing & Metabolic Health (6h)
Nutritional entrainment and meal anticipation
Role of macronutrient timing on metabolism
Personalized nutrition based on chronotype
4. Chronobiology in Clinical Nutrition & Disease (5h)
Circadian disruptions (shift work) and metabolic disorders (obesity, diabetes)
Nutritional interventions to mitigate circadian misalignment and metabolic disorders
Chrono-pharmacology: timing of drugs and nutrients
5. Experimental Approaches & Research in ChronoNutrition (2h)
Study designs in chrononutrition research
Animal models vs. human studies

NAO