Potential Adverse Effects on Lifestyle and Food Intake Pattern in Night Shift Workers

Author

Stacie L. ColemanFollow

Date of Award

12-2025

Document Type

Project

Degree Name

Master of Science in Nutrition Science

Department

Health Science and Human Ecology

First Reader/Committee Chair

Chen, Dorothy

Abstract

Abstract

Night shift work is prevalent in healthcare and other industries, yet its effects on lifestyle factors such as food intake, sleep quality, and mental health remain underexplored. This study investigates the impact of night shift schedules on nurses’ wellness, focusing on eating patterns, sleep, physical activity, and mood. A sample of 13 nurses were divided into two shift groups: day (n=5) and night (n=8); and they completed a questionnaire to assess the variables related to their behavior, food choices, eating habits, sleep patterns.

The results of previous research studies indicate that night shift nurses are more likely to adopt irregular eating patterns, with increased consumption of calorie-dense foods and a tendency to skip breakfast, potentially contributing to imbalances to metabolism (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention [CDC], n.d.). Additionally, night shift nurses reported lower sleep quality and higher levels of stress compared to their day shift counterparts, suggesting a link between circadian disruption and adverse mental health (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention [CDC], n.d.).

These results emphasize the need for targeted workplace interventions, such as structured meal breaks, availability of healthier food options, and sleep hygiene support, to improve wellness among night shift workers. Future research should examine these associations in larger, diverse samples; and explore mechanisms linking night shift work and to provide interventions to reduce health risks. This study underscores the importance of organizational policies to support the health of night shift workers.

Recommended Citation

Coleman, Stacie L., "Potential Adverse Effects on Lifestyle and Food Intake Pattern in Night Shift Workers" (2025). Electronic Theses, Projects, and Dissertations. 2351.
https://scholarworks.lib.csusb.edu/etd/2351