Today

Children who do not get enough sleep face an increased risk of obesity, a study has revealed.

Researchers at the University of Auckland discovered that seven-year-olds who got fewer than nine hours of sleep per night were three times more likely to be overweight or obese than those who slept for longer periods

The scientists believe that hormonal changes caused by lack of sleep could lead to increased appetite.

Short sleep duration was also linked to behavioural problems.

Lead researcher Professor Ed Mitchell said: "Sleep is important for health and well-being throughout life.

"Our results show a strong effect of short sleep duration on risk of obesity even when levels of daytime activity are adjusted for.

"This effect was independent of physical activity or television watching.

Professor Ed Mitchell, University of Auckland: "Sleep is important for health and well-being throughout life."

"Attention to sleep in childhood may be an important strategy to reduce the obesity epidemic."

The study, which analysed 519 seven-year-olds, revealed that the average time spent in bed was 10.1 hours.

It also found that sleep duration was much shorter on weekends than on weekdays.

It is recommended that children in primary school sleep between 11-13 hours a night, while school-aged children sleep between 10-11 hours a night.

The University of Auckland study is published in the American journal Sleep.

The American Academy of Sleep Medicine offers some helpful tips to help your child sleep better:

• Follow a consistent bedtime routine. Set aside 10 to 30 minutes to get your child ready to go to sleep each night.
• Establish a relaxing setting at bedtime.
• Interact with your child at bedtime. Don't let the TV, computer or video games take your place.
• Keep your children from TV programs, movies, and video games that are not right for their age.
• Do not let your child fall asleep while being held, rocked, fed a bottle, or while nursing.
• At bedtime, do not allow your child to have foods or drinks that contain caffeine.

Parents who suspect that their child might be suffering from a sleep disorder are encouraged to consult with their child's doctor or a sleep specialist.