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A comprehensive review of research evidence has shed light on the distinct differences between how women and men sleep, variations in their body clocks, and the impact on their metabolism. Published in Sleep Medicine Reviews, the paper underscores the critical role of sex in understanding these factors and suggests tailoring treatment strategies for sleep, circadian rhythm, and metabolic disorders based on biological sex.
Differences in Sleep Patterns
The review reveals that women often rate their sleep quality lower than men and experience more fluctuations in sleep quality, particularly in correlation with changes throughout the menstrual cycle. Dr. Sarah L. Chellappa, senior author of the paper, emphasizes the importance of recognizing these sex differences in sleep and circadian rhythms, especially in tailoring treatment approaches for associated mental health conditions.
Moreover, women are more likely to develop conditions such as restless legs syndrome and sleep-related eating disorder, while men are disproportionately diagnosed with obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA). Interestingly, OSA manifests differently in women and men, with potential disparities in associated health risks.
Variations in Body Clocks
The review highlights differences in circadian rhythms between the sexes, including variations in the secretion of melatonin and core body temperature. Dr. Renske Lok, who led the review, notes that women tend to have shorter intrinsic circadian periods compared to men, which can lead to misalignments between the internal body clock and external cues.
Men, on the other hand, exhibit later chronotypes and may experience social jet lag due to misalignments between their circadian rhythms and social demands. These differences in circadian rhythms can have significant implications for overall health and well-being.
Impact on Metabolism
The researchers also explored how sleep patterns and circadian rhythms affect metabolism, particularly in relation to the global increase in obesity. Studies indicate that sleep deprivation can lead to differences in brain activity and responses to food stimuli between women and men.
Despite differences in brain activity, men tend to overeat more than women in response to sleep loss. However, both women and men who work night shifts are at increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes, with men facing a higher risk. Emerging evidence suggests that women and men may respond differently to treatments for sleep and circadian disorders, highlighting the importance of personalized healthcare approaches.
Moving Forward
Dr. Chellappa emphasizes the need for more research on sex differences in sleep, circadian rhythms, and metabolism to inform personalized healthcare interventions. As our understanding deepens, tailored treatment strategies can enhance the likelihood of positive outcomes for individuals with sleep and circadian disorders.
Funded by various organizations including the Alexander Von Humboldt Foundation, the US Department of Defense, and the National Institute of Health, this research represents a significant step toward advancing our understanding of sex-based differences in sleep and metabolism.
