Could dimming lights and early dinners boost insulin sensitivity?

NCT ID NCT05943626

First seen Aug 05, 2026 · Last updated Aug 06, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This study tests whether a behavioral program that reduces evening light exposure and encourages finishing meals at least four hours before bedtime can improve how the body handles sugar. Overweight adults aged 18-45 who habitually sleep less than 6.5 hours per night will be randomly assigned to either this circadian intervention or a standard healthy lifestyle advice group. The main goal is to see if the circadian approach improves insulin sensitivity, which is a key marker of metabolic health.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance
A behavioral program that reduces evening and nighttime light exposure, increases morning light, and stops eating at least 4 hours before bedtime.
What this could lead to
If effective, this simple lifestyle approach could offer a drug-free way to improve insulin sensitivity and reduce cardiometabolic risk in people who sleep poorly.
What could go wrong
This is a small early-stage trial, so results may not apply broadly. The intervention relies on participants sticking to strict light and eating schedules, which may be hard to maintain.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

abdominal obesity-metabolic syndrome Feeding Behavior Insulin Resistance Intermittent Fasting metabolic syndrome X Obesity obesity disorder Overweight sleep disorder Sleep Hygiene type 2 diabetes mellitus

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

Contacts and locations

Locations

  • College of Health Research Complex--University of Utah

    RECRUITING

    Salt Lake City, Utah, 84112, United States

    Contact Email: •••••@•••••

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