Researchers at Northwestern University in the United States have found that exposure to light at bedtime increases the risk of gestational diabetes in pregnant women. Research published American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology Maternal Fetal Medicine.
A growing body of evidence suggests that nighttime light exposure at bedtime may be associated with impaired glucose regulation in adults. However, little is known about the effect of light on gestational diabetes mellitus, ie diabetes first diagnosed in a woman during pregnancy.
Gestational diabetes increases the risk of diabetes, heart disease, and maternal dementia after birth. Additionally, puppies are more likely to develop obesity and hypertension as they age. As the authors point out, the data show that women with gestational diabetes are almost 10 times more likely to develop type 2 diabetes than those who did not have glucose problems during pregnancy.
The study included 741 women in their second trimester of pregnancy. Participants’ exposure to light was assessed using a wrist device. Researchers found that light exposure at bedtime was significantly associated with an increased risk of gestational diabetes. The result was obtained after adjusting for age, BMI, ethnicity, education, work schedule, time of year, and sleep duration.
The scientists added that televisions, computers and smartphones are considered bright light. Perhaps the light affects the heart rate, which should drop before bedtime.
The increase in the prevalence of gestational diabetes was partly explained by the increase in body mass index and age of pregnant women. Weight loss and exercise also reduce the risk of developing gestational diabetes. But while turning off the lights three hours before bed is a simple lifestyle change with huge benefits, it takes some effort.