Dr Alex Craven | World Sleep Day 2025
As a surgeon specialising in weight loss and metabolic health, I see firsthand how obesity affects overall wellbeing. One of the most overlooked but critical aspects of this relationship is sleep. In recognition of World Sleep Day 2025, I want to highlight the complex link between obesity and sleep—and why addressing both is important for long-term health.
Obesity and Sleep: A Bidirectional Relationship
The relationship between obesity and sleep is complex and bidirectional. Poor sleep quality can contribute to weight gain, while excess weight can lead to sleep disturbances that further impact overall health.
- Sleep deprivation and weight gain – Research shows that inadequate sleep affects hunger-regulating hormones, increasing ghrelin (which stimulates appetite) and decreasing leptin (which signals fullness). This imbalance can lead to increased cravings, particularly for high-calorie foods.
- Obesity and sleep disorders – Excess weight, especially around the neck, is a major risk factor for obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA). OSA causes repeated interruptions in breathing during sleep, leading to fragmented rest and daytime fatigue.
- Fatigue and lifestyle choices – Persistent tiredness can reduce motivation for physical activity and increase reliance on quick, processed foods. Over time, this cycle makes weight management more challenging.
Obstructive Sleep Apnoea: A Common but Underdiagnosed Condition
OSA is frequently underdiagnosed in individuals with obesity. In addition to disrupting sleep, it is associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease, stroke, type 2 diabetes, and cognitive decline.
Many people with undiagnosed sleep apnoea experience symptoms such as daytime fatigue, morning headaches, and difficulty concentrating. Because these symptoms are often mistaken for general tiredness, the condition may go untreated. Fortunately, OSA can be effectively managed with lifestyle changes, medical therapies such as CPAP (continuous positive airway pressure), and, in some cases, weight loss interventions.
Improving Sleep and Metabolic Health
Addressing both sleep quality and metabolic health can significantly improve overall well-being. If you are struggling with sleep disturbances or suspect you may have OSA, seeking medical advice can help identify the best approach for your individual needs.
