In these busy, busy times where everyone seems to be running through life in turbo mode, getting sufficient sleep or a good night of rest is rare. Sleep, restful or getting enough of it, often takes a backseat to other things like: work, socializing, and even binge-watching shows. Did you know that skimping on sleep might be part of the reason why you’ve gained weight and is causing those extra pounds to sneak up on you?
Recent studies are uncovering a surprising link between sleep deprivation and weight gain. It turns out that not getting enough shut-eye messes with our bodies in ways that can lead to packing on pounds. The cumulative long-term effects of sleep loss and sleep disorders have been associated with not only inhibiting weight loss but also a wide range of health consequences including an increased risk of hypertension, diabetes, depression, heart attacks, and strokes.
Science has shown that when we don’t get enough sleep, our hunger hormones go haywire. Has this ever happened to you? You’re feeling tired, are sleep-deprived, and suddenly, you’re reaching for a bag of chips or just a little something sweet, a treat. This isn’t just a coincidence. The hormone that tells you when you’re full takes a nosedive, while the one that tells you to eat more goes through the roof. No wonder you find yourself raiding the fridge at odd hours of the night!
But it’s not just late-night snacking. Sleep shortage also messes with your energy levels and motivation to exercise. You know those days when all you want to do is plop on the couch? Blame it on lack of sleep. Studies have found that people who don’t get enough shut-eye feel less inclined to move their bodies. It’s like a double whammy: you eat more, and you move less, and so you gain weight.
And here’s another shocker: sleep deprivation disrupts your body’s ability to deal with sugar, which can increase your chances of developing type 2 diabetes. It’s like a domino effect—bad sleep habits messes with your sugar levels, which messes with your weight. Which is not a great combo, right?
But hope is not lost! There’s a silver lining here. You can turn things around by giving sleep the attention it deserves. Try incorporating zlēm® into your nightly routine for ease in falling asleep and a simple and effective gentle detox. Try turning off Netflix, yeah it is tempting but turn it off. Try hitting the sack at the same time every night and watch instead what that can do for your waistline.
If you’re trying to keep those extra pounds at bay, getting enough sleep should be part of your game plan. It might sound too simple, but it’s a powerful tool for keeping your weight in check and staying healthy. So next time you’re tempted to snack at midnight, remember that your body—and your jeans—will thank you for choosing some quality shut-eye instead!
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