Sleep & Weight Loss

Trying to lose weight?  Get more sleep!

More sleep leads to weight loss

The interconnectivity and complexity of a functioning human body is amazing.  One of the ways that this plays out is the relationship between body weight, physical activity and sleep.  Simply stated, lack of adequate sleep and/or poor sleep habits have a direct impact on weight control and physical fitness.

Studies have shown that a very large percentage of people do not get enough good quality sleep.  For most adults, this means 7-9 hours each night.  Many people who claim to need less are often inaccurately measuring or creating a cumulative deficit that can lead to bigger health issues.

The facts are that the quantity and quality of sleep is specific to the individual and influenced by a wide variety of factors.  One undisputed truth is that our 21st century lifestyles, stresses, opportunities and distractions are negatively impacting vital sleep needs for a great many people.

Compounding the problem are issues with prescription pharmaceuticals, anxiety, and increasingly common sleep disorders like sleep apnea.  In many cases, these factors are related and additive to the challenge of quality sleep for many people.

When the body and mind are fatigued, the process of survival begins to kick in.  Energy is consumed differently and perhaps not as efficiently.  Cognitive capacity can decline while the body dedicates resources to its physical plant.  So it is quite possible that these changes fundamentally triggered by sleep issues can have a direct impact on a person’s weight.  Even with a adequate exercise, it is possible that progress at losing weight can be hindered by poor sleep.

Related: You Are What You Eat! >>