Shiftwork is a common feature of modern working life, and it is estimated that around 22% of workers in the UK undertake some form of shift work. While shiftwork has benefits for some, it can also pose significant health risks.

Research has shown that shiftwork can disrupt the body’s circadian rhythm, leading to a range of health problems, including an increased risk of Type 2 diabetes.

What is shift work?

Shift work is any work schedule that falls outside the traditional 9am-5pm day shift. Shift work can include early morning, late night or overnight shifts and can be regular or irregular.

Shift work is common among essential service providers such as healthcare workers, emergency services, and transport workers, as well as those working in manufacturing and hospitality.

Circadian rhythm and Type 2 diabetes

The circadian rhythm is the body’s internal clock that regulates many bodily functions, including sleep, appetite, and metabolism.

The circadian rhythm is primarily influenced by exposure to light, which helps to trigger the release of hormones that regulate these functions. Disrupting the circadian rhythm can lead to a range of health problems, including an increased risk of Type 2 diabetes.

Research has shown that shift work can disrupt the circadian rhythm, leading to changes in the way the body processes glucose. This can cause insulin resistance, which can eventually lead to Type 2 diabetes.

Shift work has also been shown to disrupt sleep patterns, which can further exacerbate the risk of developing Type 2 diabetes.

Shift work and metabolic syndrome

Metabolic syndrome is a collection of conditions that increases the risk of heart disease, stroke, and Type 2 diabetes.

Metabolic syndrome is characterized by a combination of high blood pressure, high blood sugar, excess body fat, and abnormal cholesterol levels. Studies have shown that shift work can increase the risk of metabolic syndrome, with the risk increasing with the number of years spent working shifts.

Shift work and diet

Shift work can also have a significant impact on diet, which can further increase the risk of developing Type 2 diabetes. Shift workers often have irregular meal times, making it difficult to maintain a healthy diet.

Shift workers may also be more likely to eat fast food or rely on snacks for quick energy during their shift. These types of foods are often high in sugar and unhealthy fats, which can contribute to insulin resistance and increase the risk of Type 2 diabetes.

Shift work and exercise

Exercise is an important factor in reducing the risk of Type 2 diabetes. However, shift work can make it difficult to maintain a regular exercise routine. Shift workers often have irregular sleep patterns, making it difficult to find time for exercise.

Shift workers may also be more likely to experience fatigue and lack of energy, making it difficult to engage in physical activity.

Preventing Type 2 diabetes in shift workers

Preventing Type 2 diabetes in shift workers requires a multifaceted approach that addresses the various factors that contribute to the disease.

This may include education on healthy eating and exercise habits, as well as workplace policies that support healthy lifestyle choices. Employers can also implement strategies to help shift workers adjust to their schedules, such as gradually adjusting to shift work and providing access to healthy meals and snacks during the shift.

Shift workers should also prioritize their own health by making healthy lifestyle choices, such as eating a balanced diet, engaging in regular exercise, and getting enough sleep.

Seeking medical advice early on can also help to identify any potential risk factors for Type 2 diabetes and can help to prevent its onset.

Conclusion

Shift work is a common feature of modern working life, but it poses significant risks to health, including an increased risk of Type 2 diabetes.

The disruption of the circadian rhythm, irregular eating patterns, and lack of sleep can all contribute to the development of metabolic syndrome and insulin resistance. However, prevention is possible through healthy lifestyle choices and workplace policies that support healthy living.