A study presented at the 25th Anniversary Meeting of the Associated Professional Sleep Societies showed that strong cravings for carbohydrates in teens were in direct relation to their levels of daytime sleepiness. The kids with excessive daytime sleepiness were 50% more likely to crave carbs compared to kids who didn’t feel sleepy. Kids who craved carbohydrates were also much more likely to experience depression.

The American Academy of Sleep Medicine has reported that tired teens are common with many struggling to get enough sleep at night. Most teens need more than nine hours of sleep each night. “This is one of the first studies in a high school population to show a linear relationship between carbohydrate craving and sleep deprivation” said Dr. Mahmood Siddique. “In particular, as sleep deprivation increased, self-reported carbohydrate craving also increased.” He went on to conclude “This study is important given the rising epidemic of obesity among teens as well as increasing metabolic syndrome and diabetes among young adult populations.”

The risk to teens and young adults from sleep problems and sleep disorders is important. As with adults, anyone who has disturbed sleep is at a much higher risk of obesity and other related illnesses. The reasons for teens missing out on sleep are many – too much homework, late nights on-line with friends, changes in circadian rhythms or possibly an undiagnosed sleep disorder. Children and teens can suffer from sleep disorders such as obstructive sleep apnea, just like adults.

For more information about obstructive sleep apnea and treatments available please contact us today at 614-476-6696 to schedule your consultation.