Early Risers May Have an Advantage for Health and Well-Being, Study Finds
A recent study conducted by Brigham and Women’s Hospital in Massachusetts has uncovered a potential link between being a “night owl” and an increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes. The research, published in the Annals of Internal Medicine, revealed that individuals who stay up late and wake up later in the morning are 54% more likely to have “unhealthy lifestyle habits” that contribute to the development of diabetes.
This study focused on the chronotypes, or time preferences, of 63,676 nurses aged 45 to 62. The results showed that those with an evening chronotype were at a significantly higher risk (72%) of developing type 2 diabetes before accounting for lifestyle habits. Among the participants, 11% identified as evening chronotypes while 35% identified as morning chronotypes.
To gather data on lifestyle behaviors, the participants filled out a “Morningness-Eveningness Questionnaire” every two years from 2009 to 2017. The questionnaire assessed factors such as diet quality, physical activity, alcohol intake, body mass index (BMI), smoking, and sleep duration.
When socioeconomic factors and lifestyle habits were taken into account, individuals with an evening chronotype still had a 19% increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes. This suggests that inherent physiological or genetic traits related to one’s chronotype may contribute to the elevated risk.
Joe Whittington, M.D., an emergency medicine physician, commented on the study’s findings, noting that the increased risk for evening chronotypes is surprising. He also pointed out the interesting nuance that diabetes risk was higher among nurses working day shifts compared to those working night shifts, suggesting a potential mismatch between work schedule and chronotype.
The study highlights the potential impact of sleep on diabetes risk, as poor sleep quality has been linked to insulin resistance. The body’s circadian rhythm, which regulates hormone secretion, can become disrupted when there is a misalignment in hormone levels. Melatonin, often referred to as the sleep hormone, may also play a role in insulin secretion.
The findings suggest that individuals with evening chronotypes may have difficulties in glucose tolerance due to delayed melatonin secretion patterns, increasing their risk of developing diabetes.
While the study may raise concerns for night owls, there are steps that can be taken to reduce type 2 diabetes risk. Aligning one’s work schedule with their natural circadian rhythm, focusing on sleep hygiene, exercising (especially in the morning), managing stress, and maintaining a balanced diet can all contribute to a healthier lifestyle.
If lifestyle adjustments do not lead to improvements, consulting with a healthcare professional may be advisable to explore targeted interventions. Overall, the study provides valuable insights into the potential impact of chronotype on diabetes risk and emphasizes the importance of prioritizing sleep and overall well-being.
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Angelica Stabile is a lifestyle writer for Fox News Digital.
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