Chronobiology

Our bodies' biological functions are regulated by a 24-hour internal clock, more commonly known as the circadian rhythm. This system determines when certain compounds are released and used by our organs, as well as when different organ systems are most active. By studying the bodily systems and processes that adhere to this 24-hour rhythm, scientists have discovered that certain nutrients...

Chances are, you’ve heard of the term “biological clock,” while this is often times associated with women’s fertility and childbearing abilities, the truth is, almost all of the body’s biological processes are coordinated and timed by these internal biological clocks. The human body is comprised of a variety of biological clocks and rhythms. While these rhythms were once a mystery to...

Melatonin is a hormone best known for its role in preparing the brain for sleep. Due to its effectiveness in this respect, it's the primary ingredient in many sleep supplements. Outside of the United States and Canada, melatonin-based formulas are only available with a doctor's prescription. While some argue that using melatonin for sleep isn't always effective, people suffering from...

Supplementing with omega-3 fatty acids is one of the most salient health trends of the past decade. Physicians are increasingly recommending these oily supplements for a variety of purposes, from helping to maintain healthy cholesterol levels within normal ranges to combating the physical effects of aging. But when is the best time to take omega-3 supplements? Most people who take...

Healthy pregnancies are essential to the survival of our species. However, due to a lack of willingness to experiment on pregnant women, there is very little research on exactly what it takes to sustain a healthy pregnancy. According to a growing body of knowledge, the pineal gland hormone melatonin, generally associated with sleep, may be essential to having a healthy...

Most people are aware of the importance of getting sufficient vitamins in our daily diet, whether from foods or from supplements. However, new research suggests that it is also important to get these critical nutrients at the correct time of day. This may be particularly important with vitamin B6, a vitamin that plays a key role in energy production. Could...

Type 2 diabetes is on the rise, affecting over 30 million Americans -- over 10 percent of the population -- each year. Despite recommendations regarding what to eat and other lifestyle changes, science has been unable to slow the proliferation of this "modern-day" disease. Now, new findings reveal that meal timing affects blood sugar. This crucial information may lead to...

Fasting, particularly intermittent fasting, is one of the leading trends in weight loss and fitness. But unlike some popular "fad" diets, this one appears to be here to stay. Several new studies have found that intermittent fasting can have positive health effects even outside of the weight benefits. A recent study on the anti-aging effects of fasting suggests that it...

The holiday season is an especially problematic time when it comes to maintaining a healthy weight, simply because many holiday traditions in themselves are unhealthy. People tend to gorge themselves on foods that are high in saturated fats and sugar, while at the same time taking a break from regular routines and becoming more sedentary. Each year, the average individual...

Many people associate melatonin with sleep -- with good reason. Helping to regulate and maintain the circadian rhythm appears to be the most important and best-known role of this pineal gland hormone. However, melatonin also plays a variety of other important roles in the human body. According to recent studies on melatonin and fertility, it may play a very important...