Southampton, United Kingdom – Sleep quality and circadian rhythm differences between men and women have been a topic of interest for researchers exploring the impact on health and well-being. A recent review conducted by researchers at the University of Southampton has shed light on key disparities in sleep quality, circadian rhythm function, and metabolism between men and women.
The review, which analyzed around 150 articles published in the last decade, uncovered significant differences in how men and women sleep. Women tend to experience lower quality sleep and more fluctuations in their sleep patterns compared to men. Additionally, women are up to 50 percent more likely to develop certain sleep disorders, such as restless leg syndrome, while men are more prone to sleep apnoea.
Moreover, the review highlighted that melatonin secretion, a hormone crucial for regulating circadian rhythms and sleep, occurs earlier in women than in men. This difference may explain why women generally prefer earlier sleep times. On the other hand, men tend to have a preference for later sleep and wake times, which may conflict with societal demands such as work schedules.
In terms of metabolism, the researchers found that sleep quality and circadian rhythm disruptions have a significant impact on metabolic processes. Previous studies have shown a link between circadian rhythm disturbances and a higher risk of metabolic diseases like obesity and type 2 diabetes. Interestingly, the review revealed that women’s and men’s brains respond differently to food stimuli when sleep deprived, potentially influencing their eating choices the following day.
The review also uncovered disparities in the risk of developing type 2 diabetes among night shift workers. Men working night shifts were found to have a higher risk compared to women, while female night shift workers were more likely to be overweight or obese. These findings underscore the importance of considering sex-specific differences in sleep patterns and circadian rhythms when addressing health concerns related to metabolism and disease risk.
While the research has provided valuable insights into how biological sex influences sleep quality and circadian rhythms, there is still much to be uncovered. The underrepresentation of women in sleep and circadian rhythm studies poses a challenge in fully understanding the mechanisms behind these differences. By further investigating these issues, researchers aim to develop more tailored and effective treatments for both men and women to enhance overall health and well-being.