Obesity: Those who lose weight sleep better

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MunichThose who are very overweight and lose pounds can improve their health in many ways. American researchers have now found that losing weight also increases the quality of sleep.

People who are very overweight often suffer from insomnia. They are also at high risk of developing obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). That's why scientists at the University of Pennsylvania have studied whether losing weight has a positive effect on sleep in obese people. For their study, 311 women and 79 men who were very overweight took part in a special weight-loss program. The subjects were randomly divided into three groups: group one received informational material about their diet in the form of brochures, group two received quarterly visits from a lifestyle advisor, group three received the most detailed advice with monthly visits from an expert. The study lasted a total of two years.

After six months and again after 24 months, all subjects were interviewed. They provided information on their general state of health, length of sleep, quality of sleep and their mood. In addition, the study participants had to weigh themselves regularly. For the data analysis, study leader Nasreen Alfaris and his colleagues also considered factors such as gender and age.

Five percent hurdle

Overall, the study participants who received help from a lifestyle counselor lost the most weight. And that also had a positive effect on the night's sleep: Those who had lost at least five percent slept better and longer - on average 21.6 minutes more. In comparison, participants who lost less than five percent weight gained only 1.2 minutes of nighttime sleep. In addition, the general mood of the high consumers (over five percent weight loss) was also better. For example, they showed symptoms of depression less often.

Vicious cycle

Incidentally, too little sleep can also lead to obesity - a vicious circle. Studies show that the hunger hormone Grehlin in the body increases significantly after a night of sleep. In addition, areas of the brain that increase the desire to eat are highly active in tired people.

Every fifth affected

Too much adipose tissue builds up in the body of people with obesity. The reason is that more energy is supplied than the body can use. Obesity is a chronic disease that is associated with an increased risk of certain secondary diseases, such as type 2 diabetes or cardiovascular diseases. The prevalence of obesity has been increasing continuously for many years. One in five in Germany is now affected. (away)

Source: Endocrine Society: "Sleep, mood improves after substantial weight loss.", June 2014.

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