On World Sleep Day, let us tell you about one of the benefits of sleep that can help you wake up and smell the coffee! You may have heard how good quality and quantity of sleep – or a beauty sleep as many call it – can help you improve your skin. You may have also heard about how being well-slept can boost productivity. But did you know that getting enough sleep might even help you lose weight?

A randomized clinical trial published in JAMA Internal Medicine concluded that improving and maintaining optimal sleep duration could help people lose weight and be a valid strategy for obesity prevention and weight loss programs.

Why is sleep important for weight loss?

Today’s hectic lifestyle is getting on everyone’s nerves. Our subconscious credo is to prioritize work over relaxation. We gradually disregard the crucial sleep we need to replenish every day. Sleep deprivation can have a negative impact on your general health, including your weight. Adults should get 7-9 hours of sleep per night, according to the National Sleep Foundation. Anything less can result in weight gain, metabolic disorders and an increased risk of obesity and other chronic health problems.

While the negative effects of inadequate sleep are numerous, there is a positive correlation between enough sleep and healthy body weight. Dr Rohini Patil, MBBS and Certified Nutritionist, spoke with Health Shots on how sleeping a few extra hours can help with weight loss.

Dr Patil says, “World Sleep Day is a great reminder of the importance of getting enough quality sleep. Not only can sleep help improve your mood and energy levels, but it may also play a role in weight loss.”

Here are 5 ways sleep may help you lose weight

1. Regulates hormones

Sleep plays a key role in regulating hormones such as ghrelin and leptin that control hunger and satiety. When you don’t get enough sleep, levels of ghrelin increase, leading to an increased appetite, and levels of leptin decrease, which can reduce feelings of fullness.

2. Reduces stress

Inadequate sleep can increase stress levels, which can lead to overeating and weight gain. On the other hand, when you get enough sleep, you’re better equipped to manage stress, which may reduce the likelihood of stress-related overeating.

3. Improves metabolism

Sleep is essential for proper metabolism. While sleep deprivation, according to a study published in the journal Obesity, can result in a reduced resting metabolic rate (RMR). When you don’t get enough sleep, your body may produce less of the hormone that regulates metabolism, which can lead to slower metabolism and weight gain.

4. Increases physical activity

There is no doubt that getting enough sleep can help you feel refreshed and active. When you’re well-rested, you’re more likely to feel energized and motivated to exercise. Regular physical activity is linked to helping you burn calories, boost your metabolism and lose weight.

Also read: World Sleep Day: Bad sleeping habits you should break

5. Reduces late-night snacking

Lack of sleep can increase cravings for high-calorie and high-fat foods, especially late at night. Getting enough sleep can help reduce these cravings and reduce the likelihood of late-night snacking.

Takeaway

So now you know why keeping a check on a mindful sleep pattern should be a ritual to practice if we seek a healthier life ahead. A good amount of rest ensures that we perform our best!