Sleep more, sugar less? new study tests melatonin and morning light for teens

NCT ID NCT07618117

Not yet recruiting Disease control Sponsor: University of Colorado, Denver Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 27, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026

Summary

This study looks at whether improving sleep habits can help teenagers with overweight or obesity better regulate blood sugar and energy. Researchers will enroll 60 teens aged 14-19 who get less than 7 hours of sleep on school nights. For two weeks, participants will follow a sleep plan that includes an extra hour in bed, a melatonin supplement before bedtime, and bright light after waking. The goal is to see if these changes improve insulin sensitivity and daily energy use.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance: melatonin
What this could lead to: If it works, this could point toward a simple, non-drug way to help teens with overweight reduce their risk of diabetes.
What could go wrong: This is a small, early-stage study with only 60 participants, so results may not apply to all teens. The intervention combines several changes, making it hard to know which part helps.

This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

Insulin Resistance obesity disorder sleep disorder

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

INSULIN SENSITIVITY OVERWEIGHT ADOLESCENTS SLEEP

More trials for these conditions

Other studies related to the condition(s) this trial covers.