work during night it may seem like a necessity for some and a preference for others, but a recent study by the University of York, Canada, warns of the hidden dangers of this lifestyle.
Research reveals that night shifts and rotating work, which defy the biological clock, can increase the risk of cognitive decline by up to 79% among adults aged 45 to 85 years.
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Researchers analyzed data from 47,811 adults, examining their employment patterns, work schedules and cognitive function test scores. The results showed a direct connection between working through the night and greater cognitive impairment.
Those who were currently in night jobs faced a 79% greater risk of cognitive decline, while those with a history of night work had a 53% greater risk.
Identifying a probable cause
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The negative impact of night work in cognition is largely attributed to disruption of the circadian cycle, the natural rhythm by which our body regulates functions throughout the day.
Constant exposure to disruptive circadian stimuli, such as artificial light at night, can lead to cognitive impairment over time.
The researchers speculate that this disruptive exposure to circadian stimuli may contribute to neurodegeneration, potentially triggering cognitive decline.
While more research is needed to confirm these connections, the initial results are troubling and highlight the importance of considering the impact of night work on brain health.
Beyond the Brain: The Burden of Night Work
But the impact of night work is not limited to cognition. Studies have also revealed negative effects on body weight, especially in professionals who work night or rotating shifts, such as nurses who frequently face shifts.
According to the University of São Paulo (USP), these workers face significant risks of overweight and obesity due to a number of factors.
Prolonged exposure to artificial light at night, irregular meal times, desynchronization of the circadian cycle and sleep deprivation are elements that make up this environment conducive to weight gain.
Disruption of the hypothalamic-pituitary axis, which influences endocrine and hormonal functions, also plays an important role in this process.
The vicious cycle extends further. Sleep deprivation leads to changes in the hormones that regulate appetite, leading to a higher intake of high-calorie and ultra-processed foods.
This, combined with the lack of physical activity and the higher stress levels associated with night work, contributes to overweight and obesity risks.
In short, the York University study sheds a worrying light on the effects of night work and rotation in cognitive health, while USP research highlights how these same patterns can affect weight body.
While more studies are needed to fully understand these complex interactions, one thing is clear: taking care of our well-being goes far beyond just sleeping and waking up at the right time.
