It’s obvious that sleep is important to everyday health, but did you know that it also plays a role in managing weight? Sleep deprivation has long been linked to an increased risk of becoming overweight. Researchers have found that getting less than seven hours of sleep results in weight changes and may lead to weight gain, either by increasing food intake or decreasing energy burned. The effects of lack of sleep can be a hormone imbalance in your body that promotes overeating and weight gain. Leptin and ghrelin are hormones that regulate appetite. When you are not getting enough sleep, the production of these hormones is altered to create increased feelings of hunger. Researchers suggest that obesity may change metabolism and/or sleep-wake cycles in such a way that causes sleep quality to deteriorate.
How to get a good night of sleep:
- Stick to a sleep schedule to always get the sleep you need.
- Create a restful environment—a cool, dark, quiet setting is best.
- Limit daytime naps to 30 minutes or less.
- Include physical activity in your day—regular activity can promote better sleep.
- Manage worries and stress by jotting down concerns before bed.
- Avoid things that stimulate your brain, such as screen time, at least 30 minutes before bed.
