Inadequate sleep has been found to alter the ratio of beneficial bacteria residing in the human gut, thereby increasing chances of obesity!
-For a healthy living and well being, it is recommended for people aged between 18 years to 60 years to sleep for atleast 7 hours every night. Published literature suggests that due to the stressful lifestyles, people are unable to meet recommended sleep hours.
-Recent research, conducted at Uppsala University (Sweden), suggests that lack of sleep could disturb the circadian rhythm (day and night clock) of the bacteria residing in the human gut.
-The study included two groups, one where men where made to sleep for 8 hours and other where they were made to sleep for only 4 hours in two days. Fecal samples from these subjects showcased altered bacterial ratios.
-As per the study, there was an increase in the ratio of Firmicutes to Bacteriodetes.
-As per previous published studies, these bacteria were found to be directly linked with obesity.
-Inadequate sleep has also been found to be linked with the increased risk of health problems such as high blood pressure, stroke, obesity, heart disease and type 2 diabetes.
Source: Molecular Metabolism Journal