Dental biorhythm is associated with adolescent weight gain

Abstract

Abstract Background Evidence of a long-period biological rhythm present in mammalian hard tissue relates to species average body mass. Studies have just begun to investigate the role of this biorhythm in human physiology. Methods The biorhythm is calculated from naturally exfoliated primary molars for 61 adolescents. We determine if the timing relates to longitudinal measures of their weight, height, lower leg length and body mass collected over 14 months between September 2019 to October 2020. We use univariate and multivariate statistical analyses to isolate and identify relationships with the biorhythm. Results Participants with a faster biorhythm typically weigh less each month and gain significantly less weight and mass over 14-months, relative to those with a slower biorhythm. The biorhythm relates to sex differences in weight gain. Conclusions We identify a previously unknown factor that associates with the rapid change in body size that accompanies human adolescence. Our findings provide a basis from which to explore novel relationships between the biorhythm and weight-related health risks.