4. Obesity
Altered sleep-wake cycles disrupt the balance of appetite-regulating hormones like leptin and ghrelin, leading to increased hunger and cravings.
This hormonal imbalance, combined with irregular mealtimes, encourages overeating and abnormal fat storage.
Studies on shift workers consistently show higher rates of obesity compared to individuals with stable routines.
Circadian misalignment makes it harder for the body to manage energy, promoting weight gain and metabolic disturbances that further increase obesity risk.