Sleep deprivation as a risk factor for obesity La reducción del sueño como factor de riesgo para obesidad

Abstract

Nocturnal sleep patterns may be a contributing factor for the epidemic of obesity. Epidemiologic and experimental studies have reported that sleep restriction is an independent risk factor for weight gain and obesity. Moreover, sleep restriction issignifi cantly associated with incidence and prevalence of obesity and several nontransmissible chronic diseases. Experimental sleep restriction is related to altered plasma leptin and ghrelin concentrations. Both hormones are directly related to appetite and satiety mechanisms. Also, a higher activity of the orexin/hypocretin system has been reported, as well as changes in glucose metabolism and autonomic nervous system. Some studies indicate that these endocrine changes could be associated with a higher diurnal food intake and preference for energy-dense foods. All these changes could result in a positive energy balance, leading to weight gain and a higher obesity risk in the long term. The present article summarizes the epidemiologic and e