Published on 12:00 AM, November 23, 2014

Working night shift slows metabolism

Working night shift slows metabolism

Working by night and sleeping by day may slow down the body's metabolism, according to a study published in the recent edition of the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences.

This will lead to excess calorie that might explain the negative health effects linked to shift work like heightened rates of obesity, diabetes and other health problems.

Experts recommend getting five to six hours of sleep right after your shift ends and then try to nap for about two hours later in the day, before your next shift. They also suggest getting plenty of water and fiber -- from foods like fruits, vegetables, whole grains and beans.