Experts from the University of Aberdeen Rowett Institute will host a special event to give shift workers the opportunity to learn more about the health impacts of a ‘disrupted body clock’.
Dr Brendan Gabriel and Professor Alexandra Johnstone recently collaborated with NHS Grampian Nursing and Midwifery Leadership Council on a “top tips” guide for shift workers - and are keen to spread the message to other sectors too, such as oil and gas.
Attendees will learn valuable tips and tricks to stay healthy and energised while working irregular hours and Dr Gabriel and Professor Johnstone will share insights on sleep patterns, nutrition, and stress management tailored to the unique challenges faced by shift workers.
Dr Gabriel said: "We wanted to put on this event to open up a conversation between researchers and the people at the heart of this issue: shift workers themselves.
"Our research at the Rowett is focused on understanding how disrupted body clocks affect metabolism, diet, and long-term health, and we’re excited to share what we’ve learned so far.
"But we also know that real-world experiences are just as important. By hearing directly from those who work nights — across healthcare, energy, and other sectors — we can make sure our science is grounded in everyday reality."
Professor Johnstone added: “We know from our previous work that time of day of eating, or ‘chrono-nutrition’, is important for appetite control, but also that time of day for eating the largest meal of the day (either morning or evening) does not influence energy metabolism and shift workers can achieve a healthy weight in spite of different eating times.”
The event will take place on Thursday, May 22 at 2pm at the Rowett Institute. For more information and to book your place, visit https://abdn.site/ShiftWork
An online event will take place on Thursday 29 May from 2-3pm for anyone who can’t make the in person session. More details can be found here.