The role of chronotype, sleep quality, and physical activity in food cravings: a crosssectional study
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Date
2025-07
Authors
Tuna, Tuğba
Karaca Çelik, Kezban Esen
Çelik Kayapınar, Fatma
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
BMC
Abstract
Introduction
Food cravings contribute to unhealthy eating behaviors, increased energy intake, and metabolic disturbances. However, the interplay between chronotype, sleep quality, and physical activity in shaping food cravings remains unclear. This study explores these associations in adults attending fitness centers.
Methods
A cross-sectional study was conducted with 201 participants (80 females, 121 males) aged 19–64 years in İzmir, Türkiye. Validated tools, including the Food Craving Questionnaire-Trait (FCQ-T), Morningness–Eveningness Questionnaire (MEQ), and Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI), were used to assess food cravings, chronotype, and sleep quality, respectively.
Results
Regular physical activity was significantly associated with lower FCQ-T scores (p < 0.05). Poor sleep quality was linked to higher food craving levels (p < 0.05). Evening chronotypes showed higher food craving scores than morning types, though this was not statistically significant (p > 0.05). However, evening chronotypes exhibited significantly poorer sleep quality (higher PSQI scores) compared to morning types (p < 0.05).
Conclusion
This cross-sectional study suggests that regular physical activity and good sleep quality may be associated with lower food craving levels. Although chronotype differences were observed, further research is needed to clarify the underlying mechanisms. Given the limitations of the study design and potential selection bias, causal interpretations should be approached with caution. Nevertheless, interventions focusing on improving sleep and promoting physical activity may help reduce unhealthy eating tendencies in similar populations.
Description
Derginin eski adı: Emerging Themes in Epidemiology - Q1
Emerging Sources Citation Index (ESCI)
Keywords
Food cravings , Sleep quality , Chronotype , Physical activity , Behavioral nutrition , Public health
Citation
Tuna, T., Karaca Çelik, E.K. & Çelik Kayapınar, F. (2025). The role of chronotype, sleep quality, and physical activity in food cravings: a cross-sectional study. Discover Public Health, 22, 1-12. https://doi.org/10.1186/s12982-025-00800-6
