Can lack of sleep cause you to gain weight?

Over the years, the amount of time Americans spend sleeping has decreased, and the average BMI has increased. If you are beginning to worry about your waistline and realize that you are not getting enough sleep, you’re thinking in the right direction.

Sleep Affects Appetite

Studies have found that an inadequate amount of sleep can cause an increase in overeating and unhealthy food choices. When our bodies do not get enough sleep, our brains can begin interpreting the idea of food as a positive reward system.  

When you do not get enough sleep at night, your body wants to eat more to gain the energy you did not receive while sleeping. In return, this makes you eat more to balance out the energy levels you could have received by getting a healthy amount of sleep.

Sleep Affects Metabolism

Studies looking at the correlation between sleep and metabolism show that individuals sleeping six hours or less per night have a risk for low metabolism or metabolism syndrome. Metabolism syndrome is defined as having problems with metabolism, low HDL or cholesterol levels, and weight gain.

Sleep Affects Physical Activity

Lack of sleep can leave you with less energy to exercise and participate in physical activity. Exercise is a crucial component when it comes to losing weight and living a healthy lifestyle.

When you move your body or exercise more, you can improve your overall sleep quality. Participating in 75 to 150 minutes of physical activity per week can help you improve concentration during the day and decrease daytime tiredness.  

Not sure if you are getting enough sleep? We can help!

FusionSleep® provides various sleeping solutions via onsite and virtual consultation.

Our personalized therapy plans allow you to fall asleep naturally and improve your overall physical and mental health. Get in touch with our sleep experts to discuss how FusionSleep can help you with your sleep habits.