EFFECT OF SLEEP QUALITY ON GIT HEALTH

Background: Sleep plays a fundamental role in physiological regulation, influencing cognitive, emotional, and metabolic processes. Recent evidence emphasizes its impact on gastrointestinal (GI) health, particularly through the gut-brain axis, circadian rhythms, and gut microbiota. Sleep disturbances have been strongly linked to GI conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). However, the exact biological mechanisms underlying this relationship remain incompletely understood, necessitating further exploration. Objective: This study aimed to assess the impact of sleep quality on gastrointestinal health, with a focus on gut microbiota balance, circadian disruptions, and GI symptoms, while evaluating potential contributing factors such as stress, diet, and physical activity. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted over four months involving 303 adults aged 20–40 years. Participants were recruited from Superior University Lahore and online platforms. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire, including the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) and a GI symptom checklist. Demographic variables and lifestyle factors were controlled. Data analysis was performed using SPSS version 26, applying chi-square tests, independent t-tests, ANOVA, and logistic regression to determine the association between sleep parameters and GI outcomes. Results: Among 303 participants, 39.3% reported poor sleep quality. Gastrointestinal discomfort was significantly higher in this group (mean GI score = 6.8, SD = 2.3) compared to those with good sleep (mean = 3.2, SD = 1.8). Regression analysis showed sleep quality as a strong predictor of GI symptoms (β = 0.52, p < 0.001). Circadian misalignment was also significantly associated with increased digestive disturbances (χ² = 9.72, p = 0.002). Conclusion: The findings underscore a significant association between poor sleep and gastrointestinal dysfunction. Enhancing sleep hygiene may play a crucial role in alleviating GI symptoms, supporting the integration of sleep-focused interventions in clinical management.