A new study reveals that being a night owl may have a negative impact on your health. Recent research has highlighted significant metabolic differences between night owls and early birds, with critical implications for cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk. According to a study published in Experimental Physiology by Rutgers University, night owls have a decreased ability to burn fat for energy, both at rest and during exercise, compared to early birds. This impaired fat metabolism can increase the risk of developing type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular diseases.
The study found that night owls are more likely to be insulin resistant, meaning their bodies require more insulin to lower blood glucose levels. This resistance to insulin is a key factor in the development of metabolic disorders. In contrast, early birds exhibit higher insulin sensitivity, allowing them to utilize fat more effectively as an energy source.
Additionally, night owls tend to favor carbohydrates over fats for energy, further exacerbating fat accumulation and metabolic dysfunction. This preference, along with lower physical activity levels, increases the risk of CVD. However, early birds, who are generally more active and have higher aerobic fitness, benefit from better fat metabolism and overall cardiovascular health.
The metabolic impairments in night owls are linked to disruptions in circadian rhythms, which regulate various physiological processes, including metabolism and hormone production. If you naturally tend to be more of a night owl, understanding the potential negative impact to health can help you take proactive measures to mitigate risks.
There are several strategies night owls can utilize to counteract these disadvantages, including adopting consistent sleep schedules, increasing physical activity via strength training and aerobic exercise, prioritizing a low sugar, nutrient rich diet and managing stress. By making these lifestyle changes, night owls can improve their metabolic health and reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease.