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Work-shift period and weight change
A Geliebter1, M E Gluck, M Tanowitz
1New York Obesity Research Center, New York, USA. AG58@Columbia.edu
Nutrition (Burbank, Los Angeles County, Calif.)
|February 16, 2000
Summary
Late-shift hospital workers experienced significantly more weight gain than day-shift workers. Changes in eating, exercise, and sleep patterns likely contribute to this shift work-related weight gain.
Area of Science:
- Occupational Health
- Chronobiology
- Metabolic Health
Background:
- Shift work is common in healthcare, potentially impacting worker health.
- Previous studies suggest links between shift work and metabolic disturbances.
- Understanding weight changes in shift workers is crucial for preventative health strategies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate if late-shift hospital workers experience greater weight gain compared to day-shift workers.
- To explore potential contributing factors such as changes in diet, exercise, and sleep.
Main Methods:
- A questionnaire-based study involving 85 hospital workers (36 day shift, 49 late shift).
- Assessed changes in weight, food intake, exercise habits, and sleep patterns since starting current shift.
- Statistical analysis to compare weight gain and lifestyle factors between day and late shifts.
Main Results:
- Late-shift workers reported significantly higher mean weight gain (4.3 kg) versus day-shift workers (0.9 kg).
- A trend towards increased food intake and decreased exercise was observed in late-shift workers.
- Late-shift workers consumed fewer meals, ate later, and reported more/longer naps.
Conclusions:
- Late-shift hospital work is associated with greater weight gain.
- Altered eating timing, reduced physical activity, and disrupted sleep patterns may drive this weight gain.
- Interventions targeting lifestyle factors are needed for late-shift workers.