What sleep pattern leads to obesity - scientists answer

Researchers from Columbia University have found that even moderate chronic sleep deprivation (reducing sleep by about 80 minutes per day for six weeks) leads to weight gain — participants gained an average of 450 grams, and their physical activity decreased by nearly 20 minutes per day. Scientists warn that if this pattern continues for a year, weight gain could become significantly more noticeable, and chronic sleep deprivation is also linked to the risk of type 2 diabetes and dementia.

Researchers from Columbia University conducted an experiment with about 100 adults to find out how moderate chronic sleep deprivation affects weight. Half of the participants were asked to reduce sleep by about 80 minutes per day for six weeks, going to bed later but waking up at the usual time. As a result, this group gained an average of 450 grams, and their physical activity decreased by nearly 20 minutes per day. The control group, which slept 7–8 hours, showed almost no change in body weight. The first author of the study, Dr. Faris Zuraikat, noted that a half-kilogram gain over six weeks may seem insignificant, but if this pattern continues for a year, the effect will be much more noticeable. Scientists also remind that chronic sleep deprivation is associated with an increased risk of type 2 diabetes, dementia, and other diseases. The exact cause of the link between sleep deprivation and weight gain has not yet been established, but hormonal changes are thought to play a role. The article references a publication in the Daily Mail and shows no signs of propaganda, clickbait, sophistry, or commercial intent.