A lack of sleep changes the way we respond to food and regulate our appetite, a new study has found. After one night of sleep loss, the individuals in the study reported they were hungrier, and their brains responded differently to images of food. The work suggests that sleeping properly may be essential for the… [Continue Reading]
Adequate Sleep in Toddlers Essential for Emotions and Problem-Solving
January 4, 2012 By Leave a Comment
Missing naps could cause more than just tiredness in toddlers, researchers have found. A new study has found that regular naps are critical for toddlers to maintain a normal emotional balance of anxiety and happiness. Nap-deprived kids also showed weaker problem-solving skills. A new study led by the University of Colorado Boulder could be a… [Continue Reading]
Sleep Problems in Teenage Diabetics Problematic for Health and School Performance
January 2, 2012 By Leave a Comment
Young diabetes patients sleep less deeply than their non-diabetic counterparts, new research has discovered. Sleeping problems are linked to difficulties in school performance and other health issues, which could impact the quality of life of diabetic teens. A new study suggests that young diabetics may be struggling to get a good night’s sleep, resulting in… [Continue Reading]
Family Support Helps Sleep Apnea Patients Stick to Their Treatments
December 7, 2011 By Leave a Comment
The technique of applying air to the airways during sleep has been established as a treatment for sleep apnea, but many patients have difficulty sticking to the treatment. New research shows that people who involve loved ones in their treatment are more likely to complete their treatment, improving their sleep and reducing the risk of… [Continue Reading]
Sleep Problems Linked to Fibromyalgia Risk in Women
November 24, 2011 By Leave a Comment
In a study of thousands of women, researchers have found a strong link between difficulties sleeping and the risk of developing fibromyalgia. While the work does not demonstrate if sleep problems contribute to the disorder, or the reverse, scientists suggest that studies should be conducted to test whether treating the sleep problems can reduce disease… [Continue Reading]
Obesity and Improper Breathing During Sleep Linked to Cognitive Deficits
November 4, 2011 By Leave a Comment
Children need a good night’s sleep for their brains to perform at their best, and obesity and its associated disordered breathing during sleep is linked to weaker cognitive skills, researchers have found. The newly published study identified a correlation between body mass index, abnormal breathing during sleep, and cognitive ability, and scientists emphasize that impaired… [Continue Reading]
Brain Cells Discovered That Respond to Light Regulate Sleepiness
November 3, 2011 By Leave a Comment
Research into how our brains respond to light is providing new insights into sleep disorders. A new study has found a particular group of brain cells that respond to light, and that activate signals that modulate tiredness. Defects in the signal has been previously linked to abnormal sleep patterns in diseases such as Parkinson’s. Bright… [Continue Reading]
Weight Gain and Inadequate Sleep Linked in Teenagers
October 31, 2011 By Leave a Comment
Adolescents need adequate sleep to achieve their potential in school, but also to maintain their physical health and body weight, new research demonstrates. A study examining teens who sleep fewer than 8 hours per night has found a higher risk of weight gain and obesity, which are associated with serious health issues. Sleeping less than… [Continue Reading]
Teens Getting More Sleep Have Higher Academic Achievement
October 26, 2011 By Leave a Comment
Sleep has a big impact on academic achievement in teens, a new study has found. Adolescents getting an adequate amount of sleep (6-10 hours per night) score significantly higher in mathematics and in physical education. The work suggests that these two subjects are particularly affected by teens being well-rested. Adolescents sleeping more hours score higher… [Continue Reading]
Night Owls Have Higher Risk of Obesity
September 30, 2011 By Leave a Comment
Even if they get the same amount of sleep overall, night owls are more likely than early risers to suffer from obesity, researchers have shown. Perhaps due to differences in activity during the day versus the evening, the results suggest that those preferring to stay up at night make an extra effort to maintain a… [Continue Reading]