Did you know that getting a good night’s sleep is just as important for your metabolic health as eating a healthy diet and being physically active? It’s even way more needed than just taking the best fat burner pill alone. Now let me ask you. How many hours of sleep do you get every night? As published by the National Sleep Foundation, seven to eight hours of sleep per night is recommended for adults. The National Sleep Foundation reports that between 50-70 million American adults have a sleep disorder. And according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, insufficient sleep is linked to health problems such as obesity, diabetes, heart disease, and stroke. So how exactly does sleep play into metabolic health? Read on.
Sleep Triggers Hormones That Regulate Hunger and Fullness
The hormones ghrelin and leptin play key roles in regulating hunger and fullness. Ghrelin is often referred to as the “hunger hormone” because it signals to your brain that you’re hungry. On the other hand, Leptin is known as the “satiety hormone” because it signals to your brain that you’re full. Studies have shown that when you’re sleep-deprived, ghrelin levels go up, and leptin levels go down. This hormonal imbalance can lead to increased hunger and cravings, making you more likely to overeat.
Quality Sleep Speeds Up Fat Burning
Did you know that the key success to fat burning comes down to two things: sleep and exercise? That’s right. When you’re well-rested, your body can better utilize the fat-burning benefits of exercise. Sleep also plays a role in regulating insulin, the hormone that helps control blood sugar levels. When you don’t get enough sleep, your body’s ability to process insulin becomes impaired. This can lead to increased hunger and cravings, as well as weight gain.
Sleep Affects the Way Our Bodies Metabolize Fat
Studies have shown that sleep deprivation can lead to changes in the way our bodies metabolize fat. When you’re sleep-deprived, your body is more likely to store fat rather than burn it for energy. This is because when you’re tired, your body turns to sugar for energy instead of fat. No matter how hard you work out or how well you eat, if you’re not getting enough quality sleep, you’re not going to reach your weight loss goals.
Lack of Sleep Can Cause Inflammation
Chronic inflammation is a significant contributor to many chronic diseases, such as heart disease, obesity, and diabetes. Studies have shown that lack of sleep can lead to increased inflammation in the body. When you’re sleep-deprived, your body produces more stress hormone cortisol. Cortisol is a pro-inflammatory hormone that can increase inflammation in the body. So if you’re looking to reduce inflammation and improve your overall health, ensure you get quality sleep. A good night’s sleep every night is something you can’t afford to miss for your health.
If you’re not getting enough sleep, talk to your doctor about ways to improve your sleep habits. In the meantime, to get a better night’s sleep, try establishing a regular sleep schedule and stick to it. Also, it’d be much better for you to sleep in a dark and quiet room. By following these tips, you can improve your sleep habits and metabolism health.