Will Lack Of Sleep As A Teen Make You Fat?

Will Lack Of Sleep As A Teen Make You Fat?

Will Lack Of Sleep As A Teen Make You Fat?  If you are a parent of a teenager, then you know the ongoing struggle to keep them on top of school work, sports and managing a few hours of sleep at night.  Yet, recent studies bring up another concern for parents of teens.  While you may be worried about the junk food they consume contributing to childhood obesity, it is unlikely you’ve thought so far as to think those late nights and early mornings may be contributing to their weight fluctuations.  Let’s look at reasons why this could be the case for your teen.

WILL LACK OF SLEEP AS A TEEN MAKE YOU FAT?

We have all been there as a teenager.  Late night study sessions, or staying up all night talking to your high school crush are all parts of the growing up experience.  Yet, more and more studies are proving that this can in fact lead to health issues in the future including obesity.

The Facts:

A recent study done by the University of Columbia has shown that teens who get less than 6 hours of sleep at night are at a much higher risk of being obese by their early 20’s.  This study isn’t the only one that has proven that obesity can be linked to sleep deprivation.  While the reasons why are not clear as of yet, it can easily be said that poor health habits that begin in your teens will carry over into your adult life.  A lack of sleep as a teen can make you fat, because it could potentially set your metabolism back creating a problem burning calories in the future.

What Can We Do?

  • Limit extra curricular activities. This may not be a popular thing, but limiting the number of clubs, sports and groups your child is involved in prevents them from being over booked.
  • Remove Electronics From Bedrooms.
  • Encourage good study habits that keep them on track.
  • Stress the importance of the fact there is always tomorrow to finish, complete a project or talk to friends.
  • Limit activities, treats or dates so that kids can have time to focus on their education requirements so late night studies are not necessary.

By setting a good example now for your children, you can prevent a future of health issues.  Not only should you encourage your kids to get at minimum 8 hours of sleep at night, you can do so yourself so they have a good example to look up to.  Keeping good routines and schedules, turning off electronics during the week or limiting time spent using them and focusing on education can help you keep your kids healthy now and in the future.

What do you think? Will Lack Of Sleep As A Teen Make You Fat? Do you agree with the findings of the study?

8 thoughts on “Will Lack Of Sleep As A Teen Make You Fat?”

  1. It’s an interesting idea. I think we are all so different that sleep (or lack of) will vary for each person. But if someone is struggling with weight gain, getting more sleep is a great place to start. Especially for growing teens.

  2. Interesting read. There may be truth to this and maybe that’s why I’ve put on some weight in the last 2 years. I lack sleep daily and am always feeling tired/drained. :(

  3. Great article and interesting facts. I agree a lot of sleep is important but proper nutrition and sport just as much; thanks for sharing. Being the mom of two teenagers this is close to my heart.

  4. This is so interesting, but at the same time makes perfect sense!!! Thanks, I’m going to pass this on to a few teens and their moms that I know

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