The Straits Times Podcasts S1E142: Boys with nine hours of sleep are less likely to grow fat
Nov 4, 2025
In this episode, Dr. Cai Shirong and Dr. Navin Michael, principal scientists at A*Star, delve into a revealing study on sleep and obesity in children. They highlight that boys getting nine hours of sleep have a 51% lower risk of obesity and less harmful abdominal fat. The doctors discuss how sleep deprivation skews food choices and alters hunger hormones, contributing to unhealthy cravings. They also explain the importance of consistent sleep and the different impacts on boys and girls. Practical tips for better sleep hygiene for families are shared, making it an insightful listen!
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Nine Hours Cuts Boys' Obesity Risk
- Boys aged 10 who sleep ≥9 hours nightly had a 51% lower obesity risk and less abdominal fat measured by MRI.
- They also showed lower inflammatory markers linked to chronic disease risk.
Weekend Catch-Up Isn't Enough
- Weekend “catch-up” sleep did not provide the same benefits as consistent nightly sleep for reduced fat and inflammation.
- Meeting sleep recommendations on both weekdays and weekends produced the full protective effect.
Sex Differences Change Risk Patterns
- Sex differences in fat distribution weaken the sleep–obesity association in girls.
- Boys tend to store fat abdominally while girls store more in hips and thighs.