By Kristy Wise

Certain obvious factors are linked to the increasing levels of childhood obesity. Unhealthy eating, lack of kids' exercise, and too much time in front of the television ... these are all common reasons to why children might be tipping the scale.

But in addition to the obvious, there's another not-so-noticeable connection. In fact, some researchers believe this link is one of, if not the, major contributors to the recent boom in child obesity. The issue is sleep. Many studies have discovered connections between lack of sleep and future obesity, which can become an issue well before the child reaches adulthood.

Scientifically, when we lack a proper amount of sleep, our metabolism is disrupted and we're more susceptible to weight gain. Sleep deprivation can also lead to cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and sleep apnea. The same is true for kids.

Lack of sleep also affects a child's hormones. The protein hormone Leptin regulates body weight, metabolism, and reproductive function. For those sleeping less than eight hours a night, Leptin levels are considerably lower.

Ghrelin, a hormone released by the stomach, indicates that the individual is hungry at the appropriate times. Those with less sleep tend to have higher levels of Ghrelin, leading them to eat more. Other hormones affected include insulin, the stress hormone cortisol, and growth hormones. These hormonal changes can lead to cravings for foods with higher calories.

Even if your child doesn't suffer from obesity, it's important to know that plenty of rest can prevent them from struggling with weight issues later. Lack of sleep creates lethargy, preventing children from being active and healthy. And without healthy nutrition, the pounds continue to add on.

It's crucial to start your kids on a healthy sleep schedule as early as infancy. Your baby or toddler may be unable to exercise, but studies have determined that 30-month-old children lacking the proper amount of sleep have a greater risk of obesity at the age of seven. Even before other methods of weight control can take place, sleep proves to be quite effective.

In fact, according to one study, sleep has an even greater effect on a child's weight than television watching or physical exercise.

While it can be challenging for some children to sleep the proper length of time, here are some helpful tips to make sure they get the best rest possible:

• Don't feed them sugary foods at night
• Schedule regular nap times and bed times so their bodies can adjust to routine
• Naps should be taken earlier in the day and not close to bedtime
• Put infants to bed while they're tired but before they've fallen asleep. This will teach them to fall asleep on their own.
• Don't prevent children from napping with hopes that they'll sleep better at bedtime. Well-rested kids are more likely to sleep through the night than overtired kids.

Realizing first and foremost that the parent's responsibility is to care for their child, the task of adequate sleep is overall simple to follow. And since its proven benefits are crucial, a child's sleep should rank high on the list of ways to create a healthy environment and a healthy future.

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