A pioneering study conducted by researchers at Uppsala University in Sweden highlighted the harmful effects of chronic sleep deprivation on health, especially its association with a higher risk of developing type 2 diabetes.

The study published in JAMA Network Open confirms the crucial role of adequate sleep in maintaining general health.

Led by Associate Professor Christian Benedict, a renowned sleep researcher at the Department of Pharmaceutical Biosciences at Uppsala University, the study delves into the complex relationship between sleep duration and the development of type 2 diabetes.

Type 2 diabetes, characterized by impaired insulin function and high blood sugar levels, represents a major health challenge worldwide, affecting more than 462 million individuals.

Sleeping less than 6 hours increases the risk of diabetes

Benedict says: “Our research highlights the alarming danger posed by chronic sleep deprivation, especially in the context of type 2 diabetes, and while prioritizing sleep may be a challenge in today’s fast-paced world, our findings confirm Its undeniable importance for maintaining optimal health.”

Drawing on data from the UK Biobank, a comprehensive repository containing health and lifestyle information for nearly half a million participants, the researchers analyzed participants' sleep patterns and dietary habits over a 10-year period.

The results revealed a convincing relationship between short sleep duration (three to five hours a day) and an increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes.

Sleeping less than 6 hours increases the risk of diabetes

Despite the protective effects of healthy eating habits, individuals who did not get enough sleep (less than 6 hours per day) remained at risk of developing the disease, challenging the idea that diet alone could mitigate the harmful effects of sleep deprivation on Metabolic health.

Benedict emphasizes: “Our findings confirm the indispensable role of adequate sleep in reducing the risk of developing type 2 diabetes, and although healthy eating habits are undoubtedly beneficial, they cannot fully compensate for the effects.” Harmful effects of chronic sleep deprivation

This study is a poignant reminder of the critical importance of prioritizing sleep for overall health and well-being, and Benedict also emphasizes that the impact of sleep deprivation may vary between individuals, influenced by factors such as genetics and individual sleep requirements.