Study Links Chronic Sleep Loss to Weight Gain and Sedentary Behavior

A new study from Columbia University has found that reducing sleep by just 90 minutes per night over six weeks leads to an average weight gain of about half a kilo, along with an increase in waist circumference and sedentary behavior. The research, published in Annals of Internal Medicine and involving 95 adults who normally slept at least seven hours, underscores the role of adequate sleep in weight management. Source: eldiado, infobae, lavanguardia

Key Findings

• Participants gained an average of 0.45–0.5 kg and their waist circumference increased by 0.52 cm. Source: lavanguardia, infobae
• Sedentary time increased by about 17 minutes per day during the sleep-restriction period. Source: infobae, lavanguardia
• Hormonal changes were observed: levels of ghrelin (appetite-stimulating hormone) rose, while leptin levels increased in fasting, indicating disrupted appetite regulation. Source: eldiado, lavanguardia

Expert Insights

Dr. Marie-Pierre St-Onge, principal investigator, stated that “dormir lo suficiente puede ayudar a reducir el riesgo de aumento de peso” (getting enough sleep can help reduce the risk of weight gain). Source: eldiado Other experts note that sleep deprivation reduces insulin sensitivity and increases late-night eating, contributing to fat accumulation. Source: infobae The World Health Organization reports that one in three adults globally does not get the recommended seven hours of sleep, making this a widespread public health concern. Source: eldiado

The study reinforces that sleep duration should be considered alongside diet and exercise in weight control strategies.