Within the abstract of the study, the results were stated as: “Of 785 children, 50% were male, 81% were white, and 18% were overweight in 6th grade. Shorter sleep duration in 6th grade was independently associated with a greater likelihood of overweight in 6th grade. Shorter sleep duration in 3rd grade was also independently associated with overweight in 6th grade, independent of the child's weight status in 3rd grade. Sleep problems were not associated with overweight.”

Their abstract’s conclusion was: “One preventive approach to overweight may be to ensure adequate sleep in childhood.”

Lumeng further states that evidence is mounting on the relationship between sleep and hormones that regulate appetite, fat storage, and metabolism. Smaller amounts of sleep, along with irregular bed-times, lead to bodily functions that encourage weight gain.

The article (“Shorter Sleep Duration Is Associated With Increased Risk for Being Overweight at Ages 9 to 12 Years”) stating the researchers’ conclusions is published in the November 5, 2007 issue of the journal Pediatrics (volume 120, issue 5).

Co-authors of the study include: Deepak Somashekar, Niko Kaciroti, Danielle Appugliese, Robert F. Corwyn, and Robert H. Bradley.

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