Does Sleep Affect Weight Loss?

We all know that sleep is imperative for keeping cognitive functions and other bodily processes running smoothly. Without sleep, especially over prolonged periods, we can get sick more easily, have a higher risk of developing serious health conditions like diabetes and heart disease, and so much more. Having consistent, quality sleep will help your body to regulate your appetite and body weight.

Sleep and Weight Loss Relationship

There is a complicated relationship between sleep and body weight. Medical experts are still determining the exact effects of getting a healthy amount of sleep, as well as the health drawbacks of sleep deprivation. Numerous studies, however, have shown conclusive evidence that the amount of sleep that an individual gets will directly impact their eating habits, as well as their metabolic rate and weight loss or gain.

Lack of Sleep and Increase in Appetite

Have you ever had a bad night’s rest, and found that the next day, you can’t stop eating?

Your appetite is controlled by neurotransmitters that send signals to one another regarding your body’s needs. These include the hormones ghrelin and leptin. Ghrelin is the hormone that promotes hunger in the body, and leptin is the hormone that makes you feel full.

The balance of these hormones is imperative for weight regulation. If your ghrelin levels are out of whack for any reason, you will feel more inclined to eat larger portions of food, and you will likely increase the amount that you snack in a day. This will inevitably lead to weight gain, especially if it happens consistently.

Sleep and Junk Food

Studies also indicate that a lack of sleep may result in individuals seeking more energy-rich foods such as carbohydrates and sugary options. The body may feel that it needs a boost and that these are the foods that will get an individual through the day.

Oftentimes, these temporary fixes will see you through the day, but this sort of lifestyle is unsustainable – not only for those watching their weight, but for those who care about their overall health.

Best Time to Sleep for Weight Loss

Different people need different amounts of sleep; some will function happily on 6 hours of sleep, while others will struggle if they don’t get a full 8 hours. Experts say that you should sleep for at least 7-9 hours in order to repair muscle and regulate weight in your sleep.

Genie Beds may not be able to help with weight loss, but we can definitely help improve the quality of your sleep by supplying you with beds that support and give you a comfortable rest. For more information to improve your sleep quality (with our products designed with good sleep in mind) give us a call!