Mahmut Bodur, Ecem Nur Sakar, Gül Duru Aydın
Gulhane Medical Journal - 2025;67(4):277-284
Aims: The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between social jetlag (SJL), ultra-processed food (UPF) consumption, and total energy intake in young adults. Methods: This cross-sectional study included 648 healthy individuals aged 18-30 years. SJL was assessed using the Munich Chronotype Questionnaire and categorized into three groups: <1 hour, 1-2 hours, and >2 hours. Dietary intake was evaluated using a 24-hour dietary recall. UPF consumption was determined using a NOVA-based food frequency questionnaire. Multiple linear regression analyses were performed to evaluate the associations, adjusting for age, sex, body mass index, physical activity, smoking status, and total energy intake. Results: Total energy intake was significantly higher in the SJL >=2 hours group (1698.7+/-34.8 kcal/day) compared to the SJL <1 hour (1474.3+/-44.1 kcal/day) and the 1<= SJL <2 hours (1582.3+/-33.9 kcal/day) groups (p<0.001). Participants with SJL >=2 hours had significantly higher macronutrient intake, including fat, saturated fat, carbohydrate, and protein, compared with those with SJL <1 hour (p<0.05). No significant association was found between SJL duration and UPF consumption when modeled as a continuous variable (B=-0.0024; 95%, CI:-0.0124 to 0.0076; p=0.636). Age was inversely associated with UPF consumption (B=-0.0097; 95%, CI:-0.0154 to -0.0040; p=0.001), indicating lower UPF intake with increasing age. No other variables were significantly associated with UPF consumption (p>0.05). Conclusions: SJL is associated with increased energy and macronutrient intake in young adults, independent of UPF consumption.
