Association between sleep patterns and food choices among adolescents (47.7)

Abstract

Inadequate sleep has been associated with poor food choices which may increase one’s risk for obesity. This study investigated the relationship between sleeping patterns (sleep duration and bedtime) and food group choices in adolescents. This cross‐sectional study consisted of 581 adolescents (53% female) ages 11‐19 years from 10 schools in Southern California and Michigan. Participants completed a self‐administered web‐based survey containing a semi‐quantitative food frequency questionnaire, and items on demographics and lifestyle behaviors including physical activity and sleeping habits. Anthropometric measurements were obtained at clinic visits held at school sites. Data was analyzed using descriptives, t‐tests, χ2, ANOVA and ANCOVA with adjustment for confounders. Male subjects with shorter sleep duration (<8 hrs) consumed less fruits (p=0.0001) and more fat (p=0.0019). Females who sleep 8‐9 hrs per night consumed less added sugar (p=0.01) when compared to those who sleep >9 hours or <8 hours. Bedtime was not significantly associated with food intake among females. Male subjects who went to bed before 9 pm had a greater intake of fruits (p=0.0012) and a lower intake of starchy vegetables, snacks and added fat (p<0.01). Shorter sleep duration and later bedtimes influence food choices, which may have implications for adolescent future weight status.