Sleep Timing and Insulin Resistance in Adolescents With Obesity

Investigating the Relationship Between Circadian Phase and Insulin Resistance in Obese Adolescents

This study examines the relationship between sleep timing and insulin resistance in adolescents with obesity. The investigators also aim to develop a physiologically-based mathematical model of adolescent sleep/wake and circadian interactions.

Inclusion Criteria:

• High school students between the ages of 15-19
• BMI > 90th percentile
• Tanner stage 2 or greater

Exclusion Criteria:

• Any medications that affect insulin resistance or sleep (e.g., metformin, hormonal contraception, stimulants, atypical antipsychotics)
• Regular use of melatonin or sleep aids
• A prior diagnosis of obstructive sleep apnea, diabetes (HbA1c > 6.5), liver disease other than non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, pregnancy or breastfeeding
• IQ < 70 or severe mental illness that may impact sleep (e.g., schizophrenia, psychotic episodes)
• Not enrolled in a traditional high school academic program (e.g., home school students)
• Night shift employment
• Travel across more than 2 time zones in the month prior to the study