A Change in Diet May Decrease the Negative Consequences of Chronic Sleep Deprivation

Pilot Study: A Dietary Intervention May Decrease the Negative Metabolic and Cognitive Consequences of Chronic Sleep Deprivation

The purpose of this study is to determine whether or not a low calorie, low glycemic index diet with omega-3 fatty acid supplements can prevent some of the negative consequences of sleep deprivation.

This pilot study included 18 medical residents at two academic medical centers in New York City. All residents who participated in the study were assigned to work a night shift schedule for two weeks, and began the study on the morning prior to their first evening shift. The study subjects were randomly assigned to one of two groups:

• Intervention diet -- consisting of 40% carbohydrates, 30% protein, and 30% fat with 2.4g of long chain fatty acid supplements (n=9) Total calories for males was 1600/day, and 1200/day for females
• Control group -- ad lib diet.

Main outcome measures included:

• weight
• resting metabolic rate
• percent body fat
• lipid profile
• CRP
• fasting glucose and insulin levels
• urinary neurotransmitter levels
• salivary cortisol
• six cognitive tests of memory, attention, and executive function.

Subjects were tested on day 1, 7, and 14 of the study.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Medical resident in good standing at Cabrini Medical Center or Saint Vincent's Hospital, NY.
• Must be scheduled for two consecutive weeks of night shift work.

Exclusion Criteria:

• Febrile illness
• Smoker
• Food allergies of any kind
• Taking any prescription medication
• History of diabetes or thyroid dysfunction
• Body mass index (BMI)>30
• Pregnancy