How Food Affects Sleep In Teens

Teens need to get enough sleep to function well, and that includes their ability to make healthful food choices.

Sleep-deprived teens on average eat less food that’s nutritious and more food with minimal value, according to research from the Stony Brook University School of Medicine. Examining sleep habits and food choices of more than 13,000 teens nationwide, researchers found that those who reported sleeping fewer than seven hours per night were more likely to consume fast food two or more times a week and less likely to eat fruits and vegetables.

It’s possible that lack of sleep affects teens’ decision-making about food, but more studies need to be done, according to researchers.