Adolescent obesity is on the rise and shows no sign of abating. While being overweight as an adolescent has social consequences that can affect a child’s self esteem, even more serious is the effect it can have on physical health. Studies have shown that obese kids are more likely to become obese adults and are at higher risk of developing the myriad of medical problems associated with being overweight including heart disease, diabetes, and cancer. Although overeating and lack of physical activity obviously play a role in the risk of adolescent obesity, a new study suggests that how much a child sleeps may be an important factor.

A Study

This research which was presented at the Sleep 2009 conference looked at the sleep, activity, and dietary habits of 320 adolescents through a series of questionnaires. The study included both male and female participants and the average age was 13.3 years. The results? The researchers found that adolescent obesity was correlated with decreased sleep time. They also observed an association between decreased sleep time, use of caffeine, and time spent using technology such as computers and television.

Why Does Lack of Sleep Increase the Risk of Adolescent Obesity?

This study suggests that one cause of adolescent obesity may be lack of sleep and that poor sleep may be associated with overuse of caffeine and time spent in front of a computer or television screen. Lack of sleep has been associated with weight gain not only in adolescents, but also in adults. Studies have consistently shown that people who get less than seven hours of sleep each night are at a higher risk of obesity. It’s not completely clear while lack of sleep increases the risk of being overweight or obese. It appears that the levels of two hormones that control appetite called leptin and ghrelin are altered by lack of sleep which may play a role.

What’s the Solution?

If lack of sleep is a cause of adolescent obesity, obviously kids need more sleep. When kids watch television or play computer games into the evening, the effects can be so stimulating that sleep may be difficult once they do get into bed. When this is combined with excessive intake of caffeine from soft drinks and energy drinks, the result can be poor sleep patterns that can lead to an increased risk of adolescent obesity. Time spent on the computer or watching television is also less time spent being physically active which also contributes to the risk of being overweight or obese. This particular study showed that male adolescents were more likely to engage in vigorous activity than females, which may put female children at an even higher risk of adolescent obesity.

The Bottom Line

To reduce the incidence of adolescent obesity, it’s time to limit caffeine containing drinks and hours spent in front of the computer and television so kids can get the sleep they need. Combine this with a healthy diet
and physical activity and you have the recipe for a fit and healthy adolescent.