According to a recent study, kids who get less than eight hours of sleep each night are more likely to be overweight or obese than kids who get the recommended amount. Additionally, shorter sleepers are more likely to result in improper blood sugar and cholesterol levels, abdominal obesity, high blood pressure, and other health issues.

The study involved 1,229 teenagers and examined the relationship between sleep length and health, and categorized them into three groups, namely very short sleepers (less than 7 hours), short sleepers (between 7 and 8 hours), and ideal sleepers (greater than 8 hours). The sleep was monitored with a wearable activity tracker for seven days three times at ages 12, 14 and 16 years. Eight hours or more was considered ideal sleeping hours.

Results showed that only 34% of individuals aged 12 to 14 and 23% of participants aged 15 to 16 reported sleeping at least 8 hours every night. Boys typically slept less than girls. At ages 12, 14, and 16, the prevalence of overweight/obesity was 27%, 24%, and 21%, respectively. Overweight/obesity was seen in 21% and 72% of very short sleepers and 19% and 29% of short sleepers at 12 and 14 years, respectively. Further, a higher average metabolic syndrome score was seen among short or very short sleepers compared to optimal sleepers at 12 and 14 years of age.

The relationships between insufficient sleep and poor health were independent of calorie consumption and physical activity levels, proving that sleep was essential. Since obesity and metabolic syndrome are eventually linked to cardiovascular illnesses, sleep hygiene should be taught as part of school health promotion initiatives. By maintaining a regular bedtime and limiting screen usage in the evening, parents may set a positive example for their children. (Hindustan Times, Aug 28, 2022)