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Sleep Deprivation Can Lead To Weight Gain

October 15, 2009 - 11:49pm 353 reads 1 comments

Yes, there is sometimes a link between weight gain and sleep deprivation.

Too many sleepless nights can cause all kinds of problems like:

1. decreased energy,

2. constant cravings for sugary foods (for quick energy),

3. metabolic problems,

4. stressed-out feelings and

5. decreased workout performance.

Getting enough sleep lately? Being "too busy" all the time is not good! Sometimes we use it as an excuse to not do the things we should---LIKE EXERCISE! If you aren't sleeping (resting) enough, you are hindering your health and fat loss/weight loss goals!

When you wake up during the night because you can't sleep, you are likely to eat when you should be sleeping. You are likely to eat high-fat/high-calorie foods like ice cream, cookies and chocolate instead of fruit and vegetables! And, you will throw your metabolism "out of wack."

Researchers have found that the less sleep the test subjects got, the higher their body fat. The shorter sleep time altered the subjects hormone levels, energy decreased and appetite increased. And we already knew that decreased energy affects your workout performance. What's enough sleep? The general rule is 8 hours of sleep a night. Some may need more or a little less than 8 hours of sleep. Don't sabotage your exercise program and fat loss/weight loss goals by not getting enough shut-eye.

And, let’s not forget about those energy drinks on the market! Energy drinks are a trap for those of you who don’t get enough sleep! Many are looking for that quick energy! Therefore, the energy drink business is a huge industry! Save your money!

Any weight loss/fat loss goals will be accomplished primarily by your hard work and a well-designed fitness program. You can accomplish your fitness goals without ever drinking 1 ounce from an energy drink! And, energy drinks often cause you to crash lower than the previous "energy high" provided by the drink.

You will get plenty of energy from proper nutrition, vitamins and adequate sleep. Also, remember that many energy drinks are loaded with sugar which might hinder your nutritional goals. Energy drinks are also usually loaded with caffiene.

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Anonymous

I completely agree with the article. Our body works hard for us every day and anything that hinders daily processes and rhythm is a strain on the system, not matter what that is: stress, not enough sleep, too much coffee, medication, smoking - or a combination of these! from Tatiana, professional Health and Wellness Coach, founder/owner, BodyVision SL www.bodyvisionsl.com

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