Sleep Timing, Eating and Activity Measurement Study

Launched by CHILDREN'S HOSPITAL MEDICAL CENTER, CINCINNATI · Jul 28, 2021

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

The Sleep Timing, Eating and Activity Measurement Study is exploring how sleep patterns can affect dietary habits and overall health in adolescents. Researchers believe that getting enough sleep during the teenage years can help prevent obesity and other long-term health issues. They have noticed that "Morning Larks," or those who naturally wake up early, tend to eat healthier and consume fewer calories when they sleep more. However, the same benefits have not been seen in "Night Owls," who prefer staying up late. This study aims to understand why these differences exist and how improving sleep might benefit everyone.

To participate in this study, individuals should be healthy adolescents aged 14 to 18 years, regardless of their gender or background. However, those who are obese or have certain medical conditions affecting sleep or weight, like insomnia or depression, may not qualify. Participants will be asked to modify their sleep schedules and monitor their eating habits over the course of the study. This research is crucial for developing better strategies to promote healthier sleep and eating patterns among teenagers, ultimately aiming to improve public health.

Gender

ALL

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• • Healthy adolescents (any sex, gender, race, or ethnicity) aged 14-18 years, inclusive
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • 1. Obesity, because findings are meant to inform obesity-prevention efforts
• • 2. Use of a psychiatric medication or other drug with known effects on sleep, weight, or dietary behaviors.
• • 3. Intellectual disability (aka mental retardation)
• • 4. Symptoms of insomnia, obstructive sleep apnea or periodic limb movement disorder, which could mask the effects of the sleep manipulation.
• • 5. Work or other obligations that require bedtime later than 9:30 pm or waking prior to 10 am (earliest bedtime and latest rise time possible during sleep extension) during the final week of the study, or other scheduling obligations that preclude participation.
• • 6. Daily consumption of \>1 coffee or "energy drink" or \>2 caffeinated sodas.
• • 7. Currently diagnosed neurologic illness, history of seizures, or history of head injury resulting in loss of consciousness \>1 min.
• • 8. Refusal to refrain from automobile driving during the sleep restriction period of the study.
• • 9. Symptoms of clinical depression, bipolar disorder, or psychosis.