Does Sleep Help You Lose Weight?

If you want to lose weight, be sure to get enough sleep.

Most people know they should cut calories and exercise more to trim down, but there’s now significant scientific evidence that another critical component to weight control is avoiding sleep deprivation, sleep scientists say.

There is no doubt that insufficient sleep promotes hunger and appetite, which can cause excessive food intake resulting in weight gain.   Sleep deprivation probably affects every process in the body, she says.

Studies have shown that when people don’t get enough sleep they:
• Have increased levels of a hunger hormone called ghrelin and decreased levels of the satiety/fullness hormone called leptin, which could lead to overeating and weight gain.
• Consume about 300 calories a day more than when they are well-rested. Overall, most of the extra calories came from high-fat foods.
• Snack more and do less physical activity.
• Eat more than what is needed to cover the energy cost of staying awake longer, especially at night, which can lead to significant weight gain.

Click Here to access a Chart that will help you determine the hours of sleep you really need, according to the National Sleep Foundation.