### How Late Bedtimes Can Affect Your Health and Diabetes Risk Going to bed late and waking up late can negatively impact your health. A study involving over 63,000 people found that those who stay up late, known as “night owls,” have a 72% higher risk of developing diabetes compared to those who go to bed early, known as “early birds.” Night owls are more likely to drink more alcohol, have poor diets, get less sleep, and smoke. They also tend to have higher body weight and lower physical activity levels. However, the study found that if night owls change their unhealthy habits, their risk of diabetes drops significantly. After accounting for factors like weight, physical activity, and diet, the increased risk drops from 72% to 19%. This means that much of the increased risk is due to unhealthy habits rather than the late bedtime itself. Sleep patterns themselves can also affect health. Short sleep duration and sleep deprivation have been linked to increased diabetes risk. These sleep issues can increase hormones related to appetite and stress, leading to insulin resistance, which worsens blood sugar control. Researchers also found that genetics play a role in whether someone is a night owl or an early bird. There are over 350 genetic markers that influence sleep preferences. Understanding these genetic factors can help explain why night owls have a higher diabetes risk even after changing unhealthy habits. The study suggests that aligning work schedules with personal sleep preferences could promote a healthier lifestyle. For example, night owls might benefit from working evening shifts instead of morning shifts. This alignment can lead to more consistent sleep schedules, better meal timing, and overall healthier habits, reducing the risk of diabetes and other health issues. In summary, while genetics may influence whether you are a night owl or an early bird, changing unhealthy habits like diet, exercise, and smoking can significantly reduce the risk of diabetes. It’s also important to consider how your work schedule aligns with your natural sleep preferences to maintain a healthy lifestyle.