Seven hours of sleep linked to better blood sugar regulation
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- Reviewed by Robert H. Shmerling, MD, Senior Faculty Editor, Harvard Health Publishing; Editorial Advisory Board Member, Harvard Health Publishing
BMJ Open Diabetes Research and CareResearchers examined data from 23,475 people who took part in the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (51% men, ages 20 to 80). Participants reported how long they typically slept on weekdays and weekends. Researchers then estimated their insulin sensitivity - how efficiently cells respond to insulin and absorb sugar from the bloodstream - using a measure called estimated glucose disposal rate. This value is calculated from a formula using waist size, blood pressure, and blood sugar levels; a higher rate generally reflects better insulin sensitivity.
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About the Author
Maureen Salamon, Executive Editor, Harvard Women's Health Watch
About the Reviewer
Robert H. Shmerling, MD, Senior Faculty Editor, Harvard Health Publishing; Editorial Advisory Board Member, Harvard Health Publishing
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