Research published in Stanford Medicine News Center by Stanford University on 2003 suggests that good sleep habits can help the body fight cancer. Sleep deprivation lowers levels of the hormone melatonin, which is released during sleep. In addition, it suppresses levels of cortisol, which regulates immune system activity. In addition, women who work night shifts have a 35% higher risk of colorectal cancer. Lack of sleep also reduces the secretion of melatonin, which is needed by the body to regulate immune system activity.
Obesity
Researchers have found a link between short sleep and higher Body Mass Index (BMI) and obesity. Twenty studies involving more than three hundred thousand people found that those who slept for fewer than seven hours were 41% more likely to develop obesity. In contrast, adults who slept for seven to nine hours were not associated with increased risk of obesity. Sleep-deprived adults also showed higher waist circumference, a measure of how much belly fat is accumulated. Other studies have shown similar associations.
Diabetes
A lack of sleep can lead to unstable blood sugar levels. Not only does diabetes cause blood sugar levels to be unstable, but poor eating habits and insulin resistance can also disrupt sleep and interfere with the ability to control diabetes. When you don't get enough sleep, your kidneys have to work overtime to keep up with your needs. This can lead to irregular eating patterns and higher blood sugar levels. Sleep deprivation can even lead to type 2 diabetes.
Consult your doctor if you encountered sleep deprivation symptoms.
