Sleep Less & Weight More

Sleeping is an important part of our lives; lack of sleep would affect on judgment and is prone to make mistakes. However, it is not the whole story, lack of sleep would cause to gain weight. There are hormones ghrelin and leptin in our bodies; which are responsible to regulate hunger and appetite. The level of ghrelin and leptin in our bodies may be affected by lack of sleep. When the level of these hormones falls, our hunger level rises and appetite increases. Therefore low hormone levels due to sleep deprivation can result in overeating and weight gain. Most people seem to do best, when they get between seven to nine hours of sleep. Missing a night of sleep on special occasion is nothing need to worry, but consistently lack of sleep can deteriorate the body functions. If you can have a better control on leptin and ghrelin levels, you may also be able to control your appetite and stay away from the unwanted snacking.
5 simple ways to have a good night’s sleep and cope with weight control
1. Stay away from caffeine, alcohol and nicotine in late afternoon and evening.
2. Stay active and exercise regularly, but not before the bedtime.
3. Set a sleeping cycle, which enables your biological clock to prepare for the sleeping mode.
4. Relax before bed, read a book, take a bath and listen to relaxing music before climbing to bed.
5. Don’t lie in bed awake, bed should be associated with sleep and avoid reading and watching TV in bed.