Effects of Exercise and Nutritional Intake on Sleep Architecture in Adolescents

Abstract

PURPOSE Few studies have evaluated the relationship between sleep architecture and BMI, nutrition, and physical activity in children. This study determined the relationship between sleep architecture and diet and exercise. METHODS 319 Caucasian and Hispanic children aged 10 to 17 years participated in the follow up assessment of the Tucson Children’s Assessment of Sleep Apnea (TuCASA) study. The children and parents completed several questionnaires on dietary habits, amount of physical activity, and sleep habits. Subjects also underwent a home polysomnogram (PSG) to characterize their sleep. RESULTS Significant bivariate correlations were noted between Stage II sleep percentage and the following: BMI (r=.246, p<.01), estimated total recreational energy expenditure (r=.205, p<.01), vigorous activity (r=.130, p=.009), and total estimated activity (r=.148, p=0.009). In girls, significant correlations were noted between Stage II percentage sleep and BMI score (r=.279, p<.01). Also in girls, significant negative correlation was noted between REM sleep percentage and total fat intake (r=-.168, p=.039). In boys, significant correlations were again seen between Stage II percentage sleep and the following: BMI score (r=.218, p=.005), estimated total recreational energy expenditure (r=.265, p=.001), vigorous activity (r=.209, p=.008), and total estimated activity (r=.206, p=0.010). When controlling for BMI percentile and age, significant bivariate correlation was also noted between REM sleep percentage and total fat intake (r=.176, p=.034) in boys. CONCLUSIONS BMI and exercise were associated with increases in Stage II sleep. In girls, total fat intake was associated with a reduction in REM sleep, while in boys (after controlling for BMI percentile and age) total fat intake correlated with REM sleep.