Poor Sleep A Significant Risk Factor for Childhood Obesity

Chronic sleep loss has been associated with an increased risk of weight gain in adults, but now experts are saying that lack of adequate nighttime sleep in infants and preschoolers is also a significant risk factor for later childhood obesity.

Chronic sleep loss has many potential effects on the risk of weight gain. First, tired kids may exercise less and eat more during the day. Second, key hormones that regulate weight and metabolism are affected by lack of adequate sleep.