Circadian rhythm and inflammation

A disruption of circadian rhythms, when combined with a high-fat, high-sugar diet, may contribute to inflammatory bowel disease and other harmful conditions, according to a recent study. "Circadian rhythms, which impose a 24-hour cycle on our bodies, are different from sleep patterns," the first author of the study explained. "Sleep is a consequence of circadian rhythms." While circadian rhythm disruption may be common among some, the research suggests that it may be contributing to a host of diseases. The study is online at the peer-reviewed, open-access journal, PLOS ONE.