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Sleep disorders are common in type 2 diabetes and are associated with increased glucose levels, weight gain and impairments in functioning
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Over 50% of patients with type 2 diabetes have obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA) and treatment of their OSA significantly improves glucose levels
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The optimal length of sleep for beneficial effects on glucose levels and body weight appears to be between 6 – 8 hours every night. Weekend or ‘catch-up’ sleep does not fully reverse the deleterious effects of insufficient sleep
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It is important to discuss healthy sleep with all people with type 2 diabetes including sleep hygiene and screening for OSA and other sleep disorders where appropriate