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Can working in the night shift make you fat and obese? – ET HealthWorld

New Delhi: Working in night shift may increase the risk of cancer diabetes And obesity

night shiftWorking night shifts, a must for many businesses, has long been linked to a variety of adverse health effects. Recent studies have shown that working night shifts significantly increases your risk of developing diabetes and can make you sick. thick and obesity. These findings underscore the critical need for awareness and proactive measures among night shift workers to reduce these health risks.

The body’s circadian rhythm, a natural internal clock that regulates the sleep-wake cycle, is important for staying healthy. Metabolic HealthWorking night shifts disrupts this rhythm, leading to irregular sleep patterns and long-term sleep problems. sleep deprivationSuch disruptions adversely affect the body’s metabolism and hormone regulation, increasing the likelihood of insulin resistance and, as a result, type 2 diabetes. Moreover, lack of good sleep reduces the body’s ability to process glucose efficiently, leading to increased blood sugar levels.

Employees who work night shifts often face challenges in maintaining their health. Healthy Diet and regular eating patterns. Irregular work hours can lead to irregular meal times and a reliance on high-calorie, processed foods for convenience. This dietary pattern, combined with disrupted metabolic processes, promotes weight gain and obesity. Additionally, sleep deprivation affects hormones that regulate hunger and satiety, such as ghrelin and leptin, leading to increased hunger and calorie intake.

Several studies have established a clear link between working night shifts and a higher incidence of chronic diseases. The latest research has uncovered an alarming connection between night shifts and the prevalence of obesity and type 2 diabetes.

According to Dr. Javed Shah MD Medicine Ruby Hall Clinic Hinjawadi Pune, “Disruption of normal biological processes such as metabolism and hormone secretion plays a key role in these health risks. For example, alterations in the production of melatonin, a hormone that regulates sleep, have been implicated in an increased risk of developing these conditions.”

The mental health challenges associated with working night shifts cannot be overlooked. Social isolation, depression, and anxiety are common among night shift workers due to limited contact with family and friends. These mental health problems can lead to unhealthy eating habits and physical inactivity, further increasing the risk of obesity and diabetes. Constant changes in sleep schedules can also lead to mood disorders, making it even more difficult to maintain a healthy lifestyle.

Preventive measures for night shift workers

Although working night shifts may be unavoidable for some, workers can employ several strategies to reduce health risks:

Prioritize sleep hygiene: Establishing a regular sleep schedule and creating a sleep-friendly environment, even on holidays, can help improve sleep quality.

Maintain a healthy diet: Planning and preparing balanced meals that are rich in nutrients and low in processed sugars and fats can help control weight and blood sugar levels.

Regular physical activityIncorporating exercise into your daily routine can help combat the sedentary nature of night shift jobs and improve metabolic health.

Seek social support: Talking to family and friends during down time, and seeking support from coworkers, can reduce feelings of loneliness and improve mental health.

Consider alternative shift schedules: Whenever possible, negotiating for shifts that allow for more regular sleep patterns can greatly reduce health risks.

  • Published on May 26, 2024 07:05 PM IST

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