One of the most overlooked aspects of controlling body fat and body weight is getting a good night’s sleep. The fact is, sleep impacts hormonal activity. Some of this activity is connected to appetite, and therefore, can directly influence your diet and/or ability to lose weight and body fat.

Studies have shown that people who slept less than an average of seven to eight hours per night tended to eat more and, on average, weigh more than people who slept for longer durations. People who were sleep deprived showed lower levels of a hormone called “leptin”. Leptin is a hormone secreted by fat cells that triggers a feeling of satiety or fullness. Sleep deprived people also had higher levels of “gherlin”. Gherlin is secreted by cells in the stomach and pancreas and triggers a feeling of hunger or increased appetite. Without enough sleep, leptin levels drop, gherlin levels rise, and all of a sudden, you may find yourself compulsively snacking on needless calories.

A good night’s sleep helps the brain and body recover and rejuvenate after a long day, boosts mental health and immune function, and can also help you better control your body fat and weight. So, instead of indulging in sweets, indulge in sweet dreams instead.

– Jason Laporte, Exercise Physiologist