A recent study published in The European Journal of Nutrition has found that even small changes in sleep patterns, such as going to bed at different times on weekdays and weekends, could have negative effects on gut bacteria and contribute to obesity and cardiovascular disease. The study focused on social jet lag, which occurs when the body adjusts to a shift in sleep patterns. Researchers discovered that irregular sleep patterns were associated with differences in diet quality, inflammation, and the composition of the gut microbiome.
The human gut is home to a diverse community of microorganisms, including bacteria, viruses, yeasts, and fungi, that play a crucial role in overall health. Disruptions to these microbiomes can have significant health consequences, including effects on digestion, mental health, and more. Sleep may be another factor influencing the health of these microorganisms.
To investigate the relationship between social jet lag and gut bacteria, the study analyzed data from 934 participants in the United Kingdom. The researchers collected and studied blood, stool, and gut microbiome samples, as well as glucose measurements, comparing individuals with irregular sleep patterns to those with consistent sleep schedules. They discovered that even a 90-minute difference in the timing of sleep midpoint was associated with variations in gut microbiome composition. Several microbiome species linked to poor diet quality, obesity, inflammation, and cardiovascular risk were found to be more prevalent in the social jet lag group. The researchers also observed that the social jet lag group tended to have poorer diets, higher consumption of sugar-sweetened beverages, and lower intake of fruits and nuts, all of which can influence the abundance of certain gut microbiota.
While the study established a correlation between social jet lag, poor nutrition, and unfavorable gut health, it did not determine causation. The researchers emphasized that more studies are needed to fully understand the impact of sleep on gut bacteria. They also noted that certain populations, such as teenagers and young adults, may be more susceptible to social jet lag due to their biological predisposition for later bedtimes and wake times. Modern lifestyle factors, like blue light emitted by screens and work schedules, can further disrupt natural sleep patterns.
Despite the findings of this study, some experts have highlighted certain weaknesses in the research. They argue that the science behind gut health is still relatively new and that it is challenging to establish direct links between specific microorganisms and health outcomes. Additionally, the study’s categorization of social jet lag based on a 90-minute sleep disruption has been criticized as arbitrary and potentially misleading. Individuals with slight differences in sleep patterns may not experience the same health impacts as those with more significant disruptions.
Nonetheless, studies have consistently shown that social jet lag can have detrimental effects on health, including weight gain, digestive issues, and increased risks for diseases such as diabetes and cancer. Other research has linked sleep disturbances to cardiovascular disease and higher prevalence of diabetes. Shift workers, in particular, need to pay attention to their health due to the significant changes in sleep patterns they experience. The study authors recommend further research to fully understand the underlying mechanisms and identify ways to support the health of shift workers and individuals affected by social jet lag.
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