Researchers from Finland recently conducted a study to investigate the relationship between sleep duration and fruit and vegetable consumption and its impact on overall health. The study found that individuals who consumed fewer fruits or vegetables tended to sleep either less or excessively. Getting enough sleep is crucial for immune system functioning, mental health, and cardiovascular health. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends that adults get at least 7 hours of sleep per night, but many do not meet this recommendation. Factors such as sleep hygiene and mental health issues can affect sleep patterns and overall health.
The study involved 5,043 adults in Finland who provided information about their sleep duration and food intake through questionnaires. Participants were also asked about their socioeconomic status, body mass index, physical activity, and health problems. The researchers wanted to determine if participants were meeting the World Health Organization’s recommendation of eating 5 servings of fruits and vegetables per day. They found that individuals who slept around 7 to 9 hours per night consumed more fruits and vegetables compared to those who slept less or more. Short sleepers consumed 37 grams less per day, and long sleepers consumed 73 grams less than normal sleepers, who consumed an average of 463.1 grams daily.
The researchers also noted differences in the consumption of specific types of fruits and vegetables among different sleep duration groups. Short sleepers consumed fewer green leafy vegetables, root vegetables, and fruit vegetables compared to normal sleepers, while long sleepers consumed fewer green leafy vegetables and fruit vegetables. In fruit subgroups, significant differences were observed in berries and other fresh and canned fruit varieties. The study also examined participants’ self-reported chronotypes (morning, intermediate, or evening type) but found minimal influence on the link between sleep duration and fruit and vegetable consumption.
Sleep disorders physician Sudha Tallavajhula emphasized that the study’s findings suggest an association rather than causation between poor sleep behavior and food choices. She noted that poor sleep can lead to lower daytime energy levels, causing individuals to opt for processed foods instead of fresh ingredients. Devika Bhushan, a pediatrician and public health leader, raised questions about the relationship between atypical sleep patterns and lower fruit and vegetable intake. Stress-related conditions can impact sleep and contribute to unhealthy food choices, leading to higher-calorie, higher-fat, and carbohydrate-rich foods and decreased fruit and vegetable intake.
Overall, the study highlights the importance of focusing on nutrition to improve sleep and overall health. Improving dietary lifestyle may involve keeping a food diary to assess fruit and vegetable intake and making necessary adjustments. Public health interventions aimed at promoting healthy eating habits should also consider the impact of sleep and other lifestyle factors. Longitudinal studies are encouraged to better understand the associations between sleep duration, dietary choices, and their implications on public health.
