Are sleep and microbiota linked?

Sleep is one of the pillars of our health. Irregular sleep patterns are known to have a wide variety of effects... Zoom on the link between sleep and our microbiota!

Irregular sleep schedules, also known as social jetlag, correspond to differences in bedtime and wake-up times between work and rest days. These irregularities have been linked to cardiovascular risk factors and metabolic disorders. The relationship between sleep is bidirectional, as changes in the bacterial composition of the microbiota can in turn affect sleep quality. This is not surprising, given the direct communication between the central and enteric nervous systems.

A recent study published in the European Journal of Nutrition investigated the link between social jetlag and microbiota, diet, fasting and postprandial markers of cardiovascular health, and the possible mediating role of diet between social jetlag and microbiota. The researchers studied these parameters in 934 volunteers and observed that the regularity of the participants' sleep patterns significantly influenced the microbiota. In fact, differences in microbiota composition were observed from a time lag of just 90 minutes, including the development of toxin-producing micro-organisms.

It is not always easy to keep a regular rhythm because of social and professional constraints, especially if you have a very early or late chronotype ... But try nevertheless, your body will be grateful!