The importance of sleep in the prevention of type 2 diabetes

You probably already know how important it is for your child to get enough sleep – but you may be surprised to learn that children who get more sleep actually have fewer risk factors for developing type 2 diabetes. A study published by researchers at the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) found that even a one-hour increase in sleep duration was associated with a lower body mass index (BMI), insulin resistance and fasting glucose levels.

Aarti Shakkottai , M.D., Pediatric Pulmonologist at Children’s Health^SM and Assistant Professor at UT Southwestern, sheds light on the link between sleep and type 2 diabetes.

The rise of type 2 diabetes in children

Type 2 diabetes is becoming more common in children and teens, and experts believe it’s closely linked to rising childhood obesity rates. According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), about 1 in 5 children and adolescents are considered obese, meaning their body mass index (BMI) is at or above the 95^th percentile for their age and gender. Obesity increases the risk for several serious health conditions, including type 2 diabetes.

A 2023 study found that the number of new type 2 diabetes cases in children and adolescents had doubled between 2002 and 2017 – increasing from 9 to 17.9 cases per 100,000 children each year. One often overlooked risk factor for both obesity and type 2 diabetes is not getting enough sleep.

Big impacts of too few zzz’s

Besides putting your child at risk for developing type 2 diabetes, not getting enough sleep has been shown to negatively impact learning, memory, mood and behavior. It can also increase your child’s risk for developing conditions like depression and anxiety. Poor mood can also adversely affect food choices and activity levels – both of which contribute to obesity and the risk of developing type 2 diabetes.

Sleep guidelines for children and teens

Parents and families should follow the daily sleep guidelines from the AAP:

• 4–12 months of age: 12–16 hours

• 1–2 years of age: 11–14 hours

• 3–5 years of age: 10–13 hours

• 6–12 years of age: 9–12 hours

• 13–18 years of age: 8–10 hours

The quality of children’s sleep is just as important as the quantity. Kids should stay on the same bedtime routine and schedule every day, even on the weekends and over school breaks. It’s also important that children turn off all screen devices at least an hour before bedtime.

Learn more

The highly experienced sleep specialists at Children’s Health can help diagnose and treat children with all sleep disorders from birth to early adulthood. Learn more about our programs.

Endocrinologists at Children’s Health can help prevent and manage diabetes in children. Contact us today to schedule an appointment.