Sleep deprivation linked to obesity and increased calorie consumption

Research indicates that poor sleep quality is a significant risk factor for obesity, insulin resistance, and type 2 diabetes. In Mexico, 45% of the adult population suffers from poor sleep quality, a figure that exceeds the 40% global average estimated by the World Health Organization.

Sleep deprivation triggers hormonal and emotional mechanisms that drive appetite toward ultra-processed, high-calorie, sweet, and salty foods. Studies show that individuals with restricted sleep may consume up to 50% more calories from snacks. A study published in Nature Communications found that even a single night of insufficient sleep can alter brain activity by reducing function in the frontal cortex—responsible for moderating food decisions—while simultaneously activating the amygdala, which is linked to immediate impulses and rewards. This neurological shift can result in a desire for approximately 600 additional calories.

Furthermore, sleeping only four hours for two consecutive nights can elevate ghrelin, the hunger hormone. Factors such as stress, anxiety, and certain medical conditions contribute to insomnia, while heavy or fried foods can further disrupt sleep quality by making relaxation more difficult.