Sleep may be the next item to add to your weight-loss regimen, since getting enough of it could be just as important for trimming excess pounds as eating right and exercising. A recent study conducted at Bristol University found that people who slept an average of five hours a night had a higher BMI (Body Mass Index) than those averaging eight hours per night. What's the connection? Researchers think it might be due to two appetite-regulating hormones: hunger-stimulating ghrelin and hunger-stopping leptin. Ghrelin levels were higher in those who were sleep-deprived, while leptin levels were lower, possibly causing cravings for unhealthy foods. A separate but similar study recently conducted at the University of Chicago's sleep laboratory also shows that lack of sleep immediately impacts the level of these two hormones, with sleep deprived subjects having stronger junk food cravings.
The upshot? In addition to eating in the Zone to keep your insulin levels in check, be sure to get your Z's to help regulate your appetite hormones. Sleeping to lose weight? It's never been easier!
