Impact of Recent Job Loss on Sleep, Energy Consumption and Diet.

Abstract

To examine how sleep quality and sleep duration affect caloric intake among those experiencing involuntary job loss.

Methods: Adequate sleep and self reported dietary recall data from the Assessing Daily Activity Patterns through Occupational Transitions (ADAPT) study was analysed. Primary sleep indices used were total sleep time, time spent in bed after final awakening, and sleep quality as measured by the Daily Sleep Diary (DSD). Mean Energy consumption (MEC) was the primary nutritional index. Secondary indices included diet quality using the Health Eating Index 2015 (HEI), and self-reported intake of protein, carbohydrates and fats.

Results: The study participants were comprised mainly of women (61%) and non-Hispanic white. The participants had at least 2 years of college education and mean body mass index of 30.2±8.08 (kg/m ²). The average time in bed was 541.8 (9.0 hrs) ±77.55 minutes and total sleep time was 461.1 (7.6 hrs) ±56.49 minutes. Mean sleep efficiency was 91±6%, self-reported sleep quality was 2.40±0.57 (0-4 scale, 4 = very good), and minutes earlier than planned morning awakening were 14.36±24.15. Mean HEI score was 47.41±10.92. Although the MEC was below national average for both men and women, male sex was associated with higher MEC. In a fully adjusted model sleep quality was positively associated with MEC.

Conclusion: Daily overall assessments of sleep quality among recently unemployed persons were positively associated with mean energy consumption. Additionally, the diet quality of unemployed persons was found to be unhealthier than the average American and consistent with the relationship between poor socioeconomic status and lower diet quality.