Later sleep schedules in adolescents linked to increased health risks

A recent study conducted by researchers at Penn State found that adolescents with later sleep schedules are at a higher risk for various health issues. The study, which examined the sleep habits of 377 adolescents, revealed that those with a later sleep schedule tended to consume more carbohydrates and were more likely to be sedentary, even if they met their recommended sleep totals.

The researchers pointed out that going to sleep late can disrupt a child’s circadian rhythm, interfere with their social schedules and other responsibilities, and lead to inadequate diet and reduced physical activity. This can put adolescents at risk for obesity and poor cardiometabolic health.

Dr. Mallika Marshall, an Emmy award-winning journalist and physician, has been the HealthWatch Reporter for CBS Boston/WBZ-TV for over 20 years. She is Board Certified in both Internal Medicine and Pediatrics and serves on staff at Harvard Medical School, practicing at Massachusetts General Hospital. Dr. Marshall is currently caring for patients with COVID-19 at the MGH Chelsea Urgent Care and the MGH Revere Health Center. Additionally, she is a host and contributing editor for Harvard Health Publications.