Influence of sleep upon overweight in children and adolescents.

Abstract

Introduction: Sleep restriction is an independent risk factor for weight gain and obesity and is significantly associated with the incidence and prevalence of obesity and various chronic non-communicable diseases. It leads to endocrine changes that might be associated with a higher intake of food and diurnal preference for energy-dense foods, generating a positive energy balance, leading to weight gain and increased risk of long-term obesity. Objective: To analyze whether the decreases in the amount of night time sleep is a risk factor for weight gain and obesity development. Methods: An anthropometric study (height, weight, BMI, waist circumference) was conducted in 549 students between 6 and 17 years. The amount of sleep was assessed by collecting hours of sleep on weekdays, naps and weekends and stating that school children should sleep 10 hours a day. Results: Children who did not meet their recommended hours of sleep did not show statistically significant data in association with overweight or obese. The least amount of sleep was not negatively associated with BMI, or determined an increased risk for obesity. Conclusion: Sleep factor has not been identified as involved in the epidemic of obesity in children and adolescents.

Keywords

• Sleep;
• Obesity
• Healthy habits
• Children
• Adolescents