Peer-Reviewed Studies
Poor Sleep and Adolescent Obesity Risk: a narrative review of potential mechanisms
Published on 11/22/2022
In this study, we explore the connection between inadequate sleep and higher obesity risk among teenagers. We break down the potential ways this link operates. These include a heightened desire for food, stronger emotional reactions, reduced self-control, metabolism disruptions, poorer diet, and irregular eating patterns—all of which may lead to higher calorie intake. Additionally, insufficient sleep tends to promote sedentary behavior and excessive screen time, reducing overall energy expenditure. Our model suggests that these factors contribute to an energy imbalance, escalating the risk of obesity. Key mechanisms that stand out include enhanced food cravings, decreased insulin sensitivity, irregular meal times, and more sedentary activity. We also discuss what this means for future research and how it can inform healthcare practices.
Losing Sleep by staying up late leads adolescents to consume more carbohydrates and higher glycemic load
Published on 12/17/2021
This study explored how inadequate sleep affects the eating habits and timing of food consumption in adolescents. Ninety-three teenagers underwent an experiment, experiencing either short sleep (6.5-hour opportunity) or healthy sleep (9.5-hour opportunity) for five nights each. The participants reported their food intake three times under each condition, allowing analysis of calorie, macronutrient, and food type consumption. Insufficient sleep led to increased intake of carbohydrates, added sugars, and high glycemic load foods, with fewer servings of fruits/vegetables. Notably, differences in calorie and nutrient consumption were more pronounced after 9:00 pm. These findings underscore the link between inadequate sleep and dietary patterns that may elevate the risk of weight gain and cardiometabolic issues in adolescents, emphasizing the importance of promoting sufficient sleep for healthier eating habits.
Effects of Sleep Restriction on Food-Related Inhibitory Control and Reward in Adolescents
Published on 03/19/2019
This experimental study evaluated associations between sleep duration, food-related inhibitory control, and food reward in adolescents aged 12–18 with normal weight and overweight/obesity. The potential moderating effect of weight status on the associations between sleep, inhibitory control, and food reward was also examined. When sleep restricted, adolescents demonstrated heightened food reward and were less able to inhibit prepotent responses to food images. Adolescents with normal weight who experience acute sleep restriction may perceive foods to be more rewarding relative to normal sleep.
