New research suggests artificial light could potentially increase the risk of weight gain.

Previous research found that it takes 60 percent longer to get to sleep if you’ve used an electronic device in an hour or so before sleep.

According to scientists at the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, sleeping with a television or light on in your room may be a risk factor for gaining weight or developing obesity.

Published in the journal JAMA Internal Medicine, the study was the first to find an association between any exposure to artificial light at night while sleeping – and weight gain. The results suggest switching off lights at bedtime could slash your chances of gaining unwanted weight.

As part of the trial, scientists surveyed almost 44,000 women. The study’s lead author said: “Unhealthy high-calorie diet and sedentary behaviors have been the most commonly cited factors to explain the continuing rise in obesity.

“This study highlights the importance of artificial light at night and gives women who sleep with lights or the television on a way to improve their health.”

Although the research was conducted on women, it’s unlikely the outcome would be significantly different in men.

(Agencies)