Good sleep habits declared crucial for overweight adults

New research from Oregon Health & Science University highlights the negative health effects for overweight individuals who neglect their body's sleep signals, with distinct differences observed between men and women. The study, published in The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism, involved 30 participants, all with a BMI over 25.

"This study builds support for the importance of good sleep habits," said lead author Brooke Shafer, Ph.D., adding that sleep practices like setting aside screens at night can promote overall health.

Participants provided saliva samples to track melatonin onset and logged their sleep habits over a week. The study found those who slept closer to melatonin onset exhibited worse health outcomes, including higher belly fat in men and elevated glucose levels in women.

Senior author Andrew McHill, Ph.D., noted the surprising sex-dependent differences, stating, "It’s not one size fits all." Future research aims to explore interventions for those with disrupted sleep patterns, such as night shift workers. "We want to keep this vital workforce healthy," Shafer said.

The research appears in Eureka Alert news website.