The study, conducted by researchers from China's Jiaotong University, analyzed data from more than 266,000 participants from the UK Biobank and reached interesting results over a nine-year follow-up period.
Researchers monitored 5,218 new cases of irritable bowel syndrome and concluded that those who regularly work night shifts had a 36% higher risk of developing the condition than their colleagues who did not work night shifts. Interestingly, this increased risk was more pronounced among overweight workers.
As for those who work night shifts on an irregular basis, there was no significant increase in their risk of developing the disease.
Scientists explain this phenomenon through several biological mechanisms. The disruption of the circadian rhythm resulting from night shift work leads to a series of changes in the body, including an imbalance of beneficial gut bacteria, disruption of gastrointestinal motility, and an increase in low-level inflammation in the gut. Furthermore, the secretion of melatonin, a hormone that plays an important role in protecting the digestive system, is reduced.
The researchers recommend that people at risk of developing irritable bowel syndrome, especially those who are overweight, avoid working night shifts whenever possible and maintain a regular body clock. They also stress the need for further long-term studies to gain a deeper understanding of the mechanisms underlying this relationship.
It's worth noting that irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) affects up to 7.6% of the global population and causes chronic symptoms such as abdominal pain, bloating, and bowel movement disorders, negatively impacting daily quality of life and work productivity.
