Consistent sleeping patterns ‘prevent type 2 diabetes’

People need to make sure their sleeping patterns are consistent both during the week and at weekends to prevent the development of type 2 diabetes.

This is according to a new study from researchers at the University of Bristol, who analysed the sleeping habits of 522 individuals, finding that those who slept for just 30 minutes longer on a Saturday or Sunday than they did on weeknights were significantly more likely to develop obesity and consequently type 2 diabetes.

Previous research has shown that lack of sleep can have an adverse effect on the metabolism, with this latest study confirming this, as well as the fact that such weight gain can lead to further health complications, with diabetes potentially being life-threatening if it is not managed properly.

Speaking to BBC News, senior University of Surrey lecturer Dr Denise Robertson commented: "This work is interesting and consistent with prospective data found in healthy individuals without type 2 diabetes."

The UK government's Department of Health provided funding for the research.