More than 83 million U.S. adults say they sleep less than seven hours a night, which can lead to decreased glucose tolerance, insulin insensitivity, and increased hunger and obesity. Researchers from Columbia University found that participants who got only 5.5 to 6.5 hours of sleep nightly gained 1 pound in six weeks, which could add up to around 9 pounds a year if the shortened sleep cycle were consistent over time.
The Importance of Sleep for Weight Management
The reason shortened sleep time leads to weight gain has to do with the feedback loop between sleep and the secretion of growth hormone. Insufficient sleep disrupts that relationship, leading to problems with fat metabolism and weight gain. Using meditation, eating a plant-based diet, and adopting a healthy sleep routine can help prevent weight gain and associated health issues.
Original reporting: Texarkana Gazette — read the source article.
