Are you more like Hozier’s lyrics, going to bed at 3:00 am, or the couple asleep early? The chronotypes of the early bird, a night owl, or somewhere in between, are formed through sociocultural influences, family dynamic, and habitual patterns over time. These tendencies carry a perceived association. The late-night person may be seen as easy-going and open to adventure, while the early riser may be viewed as more rigid and conforming.

A chronotype defines the timing of sleep, waking hours, and food and beverage consumption. Chronotype is linked to circadian rhythms and physiological functions in the body. Early birds may have some advantages over night owls regarding long-term health outcomes.

As a fitness coach years ago, I suggested frequent meals and snacks to help “boost” metabolism. Well, it turns out that this recommendation isn’t based on biochemistry, or much science for that matter. After all, grazing is for growth; it’s best designed for infants and adolescents, and not for mostly-sedentary adults.