The Link Between Sleep and Obesity

The ability to sleep well is a tremendous gift of restoration and replenishment. Lack of sleep robs the body of its ability to stay in optimum condition. Increasing evidence shows that one major risk of lack of sleep is obesity. Educate yourself on the link between sleep and obesity and the hope for breaking this spiraling cycle.

The Risks of Sleep Deprivation and Weight Gain

Lack of sleep causes weight gain and weight gain, in turn, causes more troubled sleep.

 Significant risks of sleep deprivation include:

• Hormonal imbalances. Ghrelin and Leptin are the two main hormones that regulate the amount of food that we consume. Lack of sleep alters the production of these hormones.  Feelings of hunger begin to increase, often leading to unwise choices.
• Changes in metabolism. The body breaks down and utilizes energy through the process of metabolism. Insufficient sleep disrupts this action. Metabolism of food and glucose is negatively affected.
• Increase in underlying health conditions. When a person does not benefit from healthy sleep, the body’s systems will eventually begin to malfunction. Several serious health conditions are related to sleep deprivation, including diabetes, high blood pressure and heart disease.
• Depression. All of these adverse effects from lack of sleep often cause a person to experience feelings of hopelessness. Continued weight gain can worsen the despair.

Hope in Breaking the Link Between Sleep and Obesity, Break the Cycle

You are not doomed to continuing the downward spiral of sleep deprivation. Learn about proper “sleep hygiene,” or habits that promote rest.

Elements of a sound “sleep hygiene” system include:

• Enjoyable exercise. You must make the conscious decision to move each day. Be kind to yourself by choosing an enjoyable activity that feels right for you. Try to spend some active time outdoors. Exposure to natural light promotes the natural sleep/wake cycle.
• A supportive mattress. Invest in your future by selecting a mattress that gives you the best foundation for rest. Your mattress should allow for proper alignment of your spine and correct pressure between the body and mattress.
• Good nutrition. A healthy, balanced diet improves sleep. Try to limit carbohydrates for the evening meal and to stop eating at least an hour before bedtime. Experiment with new, tasty meals chocked full of fruits, vegetables and lean meats.

Quality sleep is a foundational element of health. Seek expert guidance in achieving optimum sleep from the professionals of Reliable MD, regarding many common ailments that affect your sleep. We understand how to help you break the exasperating cycle of sleep deprivation and obesity. We offer innovative and affordable methods for achieving the rest you deserve. Make an appointment with a Reliable MD specialist today.