Are night-shift workers on risk of diabetes? Here is what study says, 5 tips to manage it

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• May 12, 2024 | Guriya Khatun

Workers who work night shifts may be more likely to acquire diabetes or obesity, according to a recent study.

Digital Desk: Working the night shift might lead to physical imbalances. Disturbances to the body clock could have an adverse effect on the body as a whole. Workers who work night shifts may be more likely to acquire diabetes or obesity, according to a recent study. Researchers from Washington State University in the US discovered that the body's blood glucose-regulating protein rhythms can become disrupted by night shift work. According to a study, working just three nights a week may be sufficient to increase your chance of developing diabetes, obesity, and other metabolic illnesses.

Why Working at Night Increases Diabetes Risk? 

Moreover, it impairs inflammation and energy metabolism, which influences the emergence of chronic metabolic disorders. The authors described a "master biological clock in the brain" in the study that was published in the Journal of Proteome Research. This clock causes the body to follow rhythms associated with day and night. Professor Hans Van Dongen stated that stress results from this being "dysregulated," and stress has long-term negative effects on health. 

Furthermore, Van Dongen points out that three nights a week is all it takes to throw off the routine and increase health risks. This implies that it may be able to prevent diabetes and obesity early on.

The researchers used blood samples to identify proteins found in blood-based immune system cells. They found that some of these proteins exhibited rhythms that were closely linked to the master biological clock and did not alter in response to night shifts. The majority of other proteins, however, changed. The scientists discovered that individuals working night shifts had almost total reversals of their glucose cycles after analyzing proteins involved in glucose regulation. 

They also discovered that night shift workers have abnormalities in systems related to insulin sensitivity and production. Furthermore, prior research has demonstrated that shift work has a cumulatively detrimental influence on blood pressure, raising the risk of heart disease and stroke, which is higher among night shift workers.

5 Tips to Reduce Risk of Diabetes, Obesity For Night Shift Workers

1. Maintain a wholesome and active lifestyle. Maintain a healthy metabolism and reduce the likelihood of comorbidities by becoming physically active on a regular basis. 

2. Maintain fluid intake. Consume enough water to enable the kidneys to function properly and to eliminate all toxins. 

3. Include a nutrient-dense, healthful diet. An effective immune system is crucial. Eat more high-protein and high-fiber foods to stay fuller for longer. 

4. Portion control is yet another crucial factor in lowering harmful fat intake. 

5. Steer clear of processed foods. Rather, bring home-cooked lunches to work.