August/September 2025 Issue

Editor’s Spot: The Challenges of Shift Work
By Heather Davis
Today’s Dietitian
Vol. 27 No. 7 P. 4

The growing field of chrononutrition explores how the interconnected elements of food timing, metabolism, and health play out in individual lives. Through this unfolding research, dietitians discover how to better support patients and clients by appreciating the powerful impact of circadian rhythm on disease risk and health outcomes.

Approximately one-quarter of the adult workforce clocks in during nontraditional work hours, including evenings and nights. Some shiftworkers may also experience rotating shifts that require them to alternate between dramatically different sleep-wake cycles over a relatively short period of time. Research shows that those on shift work, especially working nights, have a higher risk for workplace accidents, burnout, and even traffic accidents. They may also be at greater risk for conditions such as depression, sleep disorders, CVD, and diabetes. Among other things, the body’s circadian clock influences glucose metabolism in different tissues. While on the graveyard shift, those with diabetes may face additional challenges in managing their condition. In our August/September issue, Today’s Dietitian (TD) asks how diabetes management is impacted by shift work, including what evidence-based strategies, interventions, and personalized approaches may help these individuals enhance their wellbeing and job performance.

Also in the issue, a coauthor of the interprofessional-focused cross-sectional study assessing dietitians’ knowledge, confidence, and experience in working with victims of human trafficking shares her insight on this important topic, including what RDs on the care team should know.

It’s hard to believe fall is right around the corner, but it’s true! That means the insider’s dining guide for FNCE® Nashville is here, along with the much-anticipated recap of TD’s 12th annual Spring Symposium, complete with a photo gallery of memorable moments from presenters, sponsors, attendees, special events, and more. We also have more kitchen tips and tricks to support you in making the transition back to school as smooth and painless as possible.

Please enjoy the issue!

— Heather Davis, MS, RDN, LDN, editor
TDeditor@gvpub.com