Effects of Time-Restricted Eating on Circadian Cortisol Secretion and Obesity-Related Metabolic Markers in Cushing's Disease: A Pilot Study
NUTRIENTS, vol.18, no.8, 2026 (SCI-Expanded, Scopus)
- Publication Type: Article / Article
- Volume: 18 Issue: 8
- Publication Date: 2026
- Doi Number: 10.3390/nu18081175
- Journal Name: NUTRIENTS
- Journal Indexes: Science Citation Index Expanded (SCI-EXPANDED), Scopus, BIOSIS, CAB Abstracts, CINAHL, EMBASE, Food Science & Technology Abstracts, MEDLINE, Biomedical Reference Collection: Corporate Edition (EBSCO), Health Research Premium Collection (ProQuest)
- Istanbul University Affiliated: Yes
Abstract
Purpose: The aims of this study were to evaluate the feasibility of time-restricted eating (TRE) in patients with Cushing's disease (CD) and assess its effects on body weight and metabolic parameters. Methods: Twelve CD patients in remission with obesity were enrolled in a TRE program restricting food intake to 10:00-18:00. Anthropometric data, glycemic and lipid profiles, and circadian cortisol secretion were assessed at baseline and post-intervention. Serum cortisol levels were measured at multiple time points to evaluate diurnal patterns. Results: Nine patients completed the study. Over the 12-week period, participants showed a significant reduction in body weight, with median values decreasing from 93.8 kg [83.1-106.5] to 82.6 kg [76.9-100.3] (p = 0.011). Body mass index (BMI) also declined from 37.6 kg/m2 [34.2-39.7] to 34.4 kg/m2 [32.6-38.3] (p = 0.012). No statistically significant changes were observed in fasting glucose, HbA1c, or lipid parameters. Notably, 24 h urinary free cortisol levels significantly decreased (p = 0.01), and serum cortisol showed a downward trend at all measured time points, with the most pronounced reductions during mid-day and evening hours. No clinical or biochemical evidence of CD relapse was observed during the 12-month follow-up. Conclusions: Time-restricted eating is a feasible and well-tolerated dietary approach for patients with CD in remission, promoting weight loss and modest improvements in metabolic markers and cortisol rhythmicity.