Comparative evaluation of gut health, inflammatory factors, and sleep quality among shift workers: A cross-sectional study

BACKGROUND: Night-shift work disrupts the body’s natural circadian rhythm, leading to impaired sleep quality, altered gut function, and reduced emotional well-being. Circadian misalignment affects sleep duration and efficiency, disturbs gastrointestinal (GI) regulation, and increases the risk of mood disorders such as anxiety and depression. These cumulative effects can significantly impact overall health and quality of life in shift workers. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A cross-sectional comparative study was conducted among 200 individuals (100 day-shift and 100 night-shift workers) aged 25–40 years at a tertiary care hospital in Pune. Data was obtained using a structured questionnaire designed to assess sleep, gastrointestinal symptoms, and emotional health. Blood samples were analyzed for lipopolysaccharide (LPS), zonulin, C-reactive protein (CRP), interleukin-6 (IL-6), and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α). Data was analyzed using SPSS version 25.0 (IBM Corp., Armonk, NY, USA); significance was set at P < 0.05. RESULTS: Night-shift workers reported significantly more gastrointestinal issues (heartburn, bloating, constipation, indigestion; P < 0.050) and emotional distress ( P = 0.010) compared to day-shift workers. Elevated gut permeability markers (LPS: P = 0.003; zonulin: P = 0.005) were also found among night-shift workers. Inflammatory markers (CRP, IL-6, TNF-α) were significantly higher among night-shift workers ( P < 0.010), indicating systemic inflammation. The quality of sleep was poor, along with shorter duration among night-shift workers, which was further aggravated by co-use, like smoking and alcohol ( P = 0.004). Night-shift workers, especially the higher income group and females, experienced greater sleep disturbances and distress ( P < 0.020). Day-shift workers who did regular physical exercise had improved sleep quality ( P = 0.003). CONCLUSION: Night-shift work is associated with poor sleep quality, increased gut permeability, and elevated inflammatory markers in the body. Lifestyle interventions focusing on sleep, diet, and stress may reduce health risks associated with poor sleep quality.