Excessive daytime sleepiness (EDS) is a common phenomenon that affects millions of people worldwide. It is characterized by an overwhelming feeling of tiredness or sleepiness during the day, despite getting adequate sleep at night. While the exact causes of EDS are still unclear, a recent study published in The Lancet’s journal EBiom has shed new light on the potential link between diet and hormones.
The study, conducted by a team of researchers from the University of Pittsburgh, analyzed the blood levels of 877 metabolites from 6,071 participants to identify any correlations with EDS. Metabolites are small molecules produced by the body as it breaks down food, and they can provide valuable insights into an individual’s diet, health, and disease risk.
According to the findings, certain metabolites were linked to an increased risk of EDS, while others were associated with a decreased risk. The most significant findings were related to metabolites involved in steroid hormone biosynthesis, including cortisol production.
Cortisol is often referred to as the “stress hormone” because it is produced in response to stress, anxiety, and other emotional stimuli. While cortisol plays a crucial role in helping the body respond to stress, chronically elevated levels can have negative effects on the body, including insomnia, fatigue, and weight gain.
The study found that metabolites involved in cortisol production were significantly higher in individuals with EDS, suggesting that cortisol dysregulation may be a contributing factor to the condition. This is consistent with previous research that has shown that cortisol levels are often elevated in individuals with EDS.
Another key finding of the study was the link between omega-3 fatty acid metabolites and a decreased risk of EDS. Omega-3 fatty acids are important for brain function and are often found in fatty fish, nuts, and seeds. They have been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties and may help to reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety.
The study found that individuals with higher levels of omega-3 fatty acid metabolites were less likely to experience EDS, suggesting that a diet rich in these nutrients may be beneficial for individuals who struggle with sleepiness during the day.
The researchers also identified other metabolites that were associated with EDS, including those involved in the metabolism of sugar and fat. These findings suggest that an imbalance in the body’s metabolic processes may also contribute to the development of EDS.
So, what does this study mean for individuals who struggle with excessive daytime sleepiness? While the findings are intriguing, it’s important to note that the study was observational, meaning that it did not establish a cause-and-effect relationship between diet and EDS.
However, the study does suggest that diet may play a role in the development of EDS, and that certain nutrients, such as omega-3 fatty acids, may be beneficial for reducing the risk of the condition. It also highlights the importance of cortisol regulation and the potential negative effects of chronically elevated cortisol levels.
So, what can you do to reduce your risk of EDS? Here are a few tips:
- Eat a balanced diet that includes a variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein sources.
- Incorporate omega-3 rich foods into your diet, such as fatty fish, nuts, and seeds.
- Practice stress-reducing techniques, such as meditation or yoga, to help manage cortisol levels.
- Get regular exercise to improve overall sleep quality and reduce symptoms of EDS.
- Avoid consuming foods and drinks that can disrupt sleep, such as caffeine and sugar, in the hours leading up to bedtime.
In conclusion, the study provides new insights into the potential link between diet and hormones in the development of excessive daytime sleepiness. While more research is needed to fully understand the relationship between diet and EDS, the findings suggest that diet may play a role in the condition and that certain nutrients, such as omega-3 fatty acids, may be beneficial for reducing the risk of EDS.
Source:
https://www.thelancet.com/journals/EBIOM/article/PIIS2352-3964(25)00325-1/fulltext
