Sleep and obesity in children and adolescents

Pediatr Clin North Am. 2011 Jun;58(3):715-33. doi: 10.1016/j.pcl.2011.03.007. Epub 2011 Apr 13.

Abstract

The purpose of this review is to provide a comprehensive update of epidemiologic studies that have assessed the association between sleep and obesity risk. Data suggest that short sleep is associated with an increased risk for being or becoming overweight/obese or having increased body fat. Late bedtimes are also a risk factor for overweight/obesity. Findings also suggest that changes in eating pathways may lead to increased body fat. Future experimental studies are needed to enhance our understanding of the underlying mechanisms through which sleep may play a role in the development and maintenance of childhood obesity.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Child
  • Humans
  • Morbidity
  • Obesity* / complications
  • Obesity* / epidemiology
  • Obesity* / physiopathology
  • Risk Factors
  • Sleep Wake Disorders* / epidemiology
  • Sleep Wake Disorders* / etiology
  • Sleep Wake Disorders* / physiopathology
  • Sleep*
  • United States / epidemiology