Lauren Kroeger
In Wellness
We often overlook the fact than many of us get way less than 8 hours of sleep a night. We can contribute this to our demanding society, the need to cram as much as we can into every day, and the constant connection to technology. We’ve heard it for years to get enough sleep but how does lack of sleep really impact your health?
Decreases your immune response:
Studies show that people who get less than 6 hours of sleep are 4 times more likely to get sick when exposed to a virus.
Leads to increased appetite and cravings:
Lack of sleep alters appetite hormones driving us to eat more. When we are low on sleep and junk food is present, our ability to resist that food is impaired. I know when I’m low on sleep I’m seeking energy from somewhere the next day and that’s not from carrots and celery. Typically we crave simple, refined carbs which are quick energy sources.
When we think we just don’t have the willpower to meet our health goals, we need to take a closer look at our sleep. Lack of sleep can be driving those impulses to overeat on the foods that lack nutritional value. Lack of sleep can also undermine your efforts to losing weight. Insufficient sleep literally decreases the benefits of those dietary interventions you are making. One study showed that those who were sleep deprived experienced a 55% reduction in fat loss compared to their well-rested counterparts when they were on the same diet.
Sleep is such a critical piece in our overall well-being. Focus on your sleep hygiene this week. Let some things wait for the sake of your sleep. Avoid caffeine after lunch, choose meals balanced with lean protein, quality fat, and complex carbs, let those dishes sit if it means you get to sleep sooner, turn off the phone/tv earlier, and prime your body for rest. Give it a week and see how your sleep improves!