Poor Sleep Linked With body obsession Among Young: Study

Muscle dysmorphia is a psychological disorder, an obsessive fixation on one's perceived lack of muscle size or muscularity...

Digital Desk: A recent study published in the journal Sleep Health has highlighted a concerning link between poor sleep and muscle dysmorphia among young people. The research involved over 900 adolescents and young adults, and over two weeks, participants displaying more symptoms of muscle dysmorphia reported getting fewer hours of sleep and experiencing difficulties falling or staying asleep.

Muscle dysmorphia: It is a psychological disorder characterized by an obsessive fixation on one's perceived lack of muscle size or muscularity, leading to compulsive exercise, distorted body image, and potentially harmful dietary habits.

Lead author Kyle T Ganson, PhD, MSW, assistant professor at the University of Toronto's Factor-Inwentash Faculty of Social Work, emphasized the significance of adequate sleep for adolescents and young adults. "Poor sleep can have significant negative impacts for adolescents and young adults, including increased negative mental health symptoms," he said.

The study is the first to explore the relationship between sleep and muscle dysmorphia, a condition where individuals become excessively preoccupied with the perception that their bodies are not sufficiently muscular or lean. 

The researchers suggested that "Poor sleep among those who experience muscle dysmorphia symptoms is concerning as it may exacerbate the functional and social impairment these individuals commonly report, as well as increase suicidal thoughts and behaviours."

Numerous studies have established poor sleep as an indicator of mental health conditions, correlating with symptoms such as anxiety, depression, and psychosis; notably, Ganson and his colleagues' research marks the inaugural exploration of the link between sleep patterns and muscle dysmorphia.

Individuals with greater body image intolerance, engaging in obsessive thinking, and experiencing anxiety related to their body and muscularity may suffer from impaired sleep. 

Furthermore, for some, physical activity might displace sleep as they engage in muscle-building exercises during the evening to avoid interference with occupational responsibilities.

The study also pointed out that those experiencing symptoms of muscle dysmorphia might be more likely to use dietary supplements marketed for improving workouts and muscle mass. These products often contain high levels of caffeine or other stimulants that can negatively impact sleep. 

Additionally, the use of anabolic-androgenic steroids, common among individuals with muscle dysmorphia, has been shown to negatively affect sleep.

The study adds to existing research indicating that adolescents and young adults, on average, are not meeting the recommended 7 to 10 hours of sleep per night, with poor sleep being linked to various mental health issues such as anxiety and depression.