Irregular Sleep Patterns and Their Relationship with Metabolic Health

Abstract

Irregular sleep patterns may negatively influence metabolic health by disrupting normal hormonal balance, glucose regulation, and energy metabolism. This study examines the relationship between inconsistent sleep schedules and selected metabolic health indicators among adults. Sleep patterns are assessed through bedtime variability, wake-up time, sleep duration, nighttime awakenings, and differences between weekday and weekend sleep schedules. Metabolic health is evaluated using body mass index, waist circumference, blood glucose, blood pressure, and lipid profile. The findings suggest that greater irregularity in sleep timing is associated with unfavorable metabolic outcomes, including increased body weight, impaired glucose regulation, elevated blood pressure, and abnormal lipid levels. Short or inconsistent sleep duration may further contribute to metabolic disturbances. In contrast, maintaining regular sleep schedules and adequate sleep duration is associated with healthier metabolic indicators. The study highlights the importance of consistent sleep habits as part of lifestyle strategies for supporting metabolic health and reducing chronic disease risk.