A recent study revealed that sleep deprivation during infancy and early childhood increases risk of obesity and adiposity or overall body fat later.
The study from MassGeneral Hospital for Children (MGHfC) investigators, published in the June issue of Pediatrics, also finds no evidence of a specific period during which insufficient sleep has greater influence on later obesity.
“Our study found convincing evidence that getting less than recommended amounts of sleep across early childhood is an independent and strong risk factor for obesity and adiposity,” said Elsie Taveras, chief of general pediatrics at MassGeneral Hospital for Children (MGHfC) in the US.
Contrary to some published studies, we did not find a particular ‘critical period’ for the influence of sleep duration on weight gain, Taveras added.
Instead, insufficient sleep at any time in early childhood had adverse effects.
Overall, children with the lowest sleep scores had the highest levels of all body measurements reflecting obesity and adiposity, including abdominal fat which is considered to be particularly hazardous, the study noted.
The association was consistent at all ages, indicating there was no critical period for the interaction between sleep and weight.
Source: Massachusetts General Hospital
Like
Dislike
Be a part of Elets Collaborative Initiatives. Join Us for Upcoming Events and explore business opportunities. Like us on Facebook , connect with us on LinkedIn and follow us on Twitter , Instagram.
