In February 2019 researchers from Israel published the results of their study to compare dietary intake during a day shift and during a night shift in 132 female nurses who work rotating shifts as it is thought that shift work may be associated with a higher BMI, metabolic disruption (circadian rhythm) and an increased risk of chronic disease. Information on dietary intake was collected via the use of food diaries. Results showed that the intake of protein, carbohydrates, total fat, saturated fat, and calcium was significantly higher when the individual worked a night shift when compared to the day shift. The total calorie intake was also higher whilst working a night shift. It is thought that the difference observed may be influenced by the food supplied by the hospital as well as by increased food intake in general.
Fradkin L et al. Nurses who work rotating shifts consume more energy, macronutrients and calcium when they work the night shift versus day shift. Chronobiol Int. 2019 Feb;36(2):288-295