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Get More ZZZZZ's and Lose More Weight

Spring forward in the Spring and fall backwards in the Fall




It is that time of the year, Daylight Saving Time, where we all think we're going to have an easier time waking up in the morning because our bodies are used to the hour difference. We're forgetting one thing though, yes, our bodies may be used to waking up earlier than what the clock reads however in the evenings we are staying up later because of what the clock has lit up.



Sleep plays a vital role in overall health and weight loss. The average person needs at least 7 to 8 hours of sleep every night. Some people can function on less and some actually force themselves to work on less.



When your body is sleep deprived it affects the way carbohydrates are stored and alters hormone levels, which can both lead to weigh gain.



Sleep deprivation leads to increased concentration of ghrelin, an appetite stimulant hormone. Leptin is another hormone that is affected by lack of sleep. Leptin is a hormone in the body that represses your appetite and when your body does not get enough sleep the hormone decreases. So, simply put, when you don't get enough sleep your body tends to crave more food.



You may have even experienced one of those days after a restless, sleepless night that no matter what or how much you ate you never felt satisfied or full. That's because of the ghrelin and leptin hormone balance.



Now that it is Daylight Saving Time our bodies have to adjust to the new time change. The first week is always the roughest but eventually we go back into our normal sleeping patterns.



With many people having to take on second jobs or work long hours the majority of individuals very rarely get enough sleep. But if you are trying to lose weight you need to think twice about depriving yourself of that soft pillow top mattress.



Things to take into consideration when trying to get an undisturbed night's rest.





Stick to a schedule. Go to bed at the same time and wake up at the same time.

Try to avoid the consumption of liquids before bed so you aren't up using the restroom in the middle of the night.

Eliminate caffeine and alcohol before bed as they disturb your sleep. Caffeine can prevent you from falling asleep while alcohol may force you to fall asleep faster but creates a disturbed night later on with restlessness, nightmares, sweats and rapid heartbeat.

Don't eat right before bed. If you are dying of starvation and simply can't resist nibble on a simple carbohydrate such as crackers or dairy products as they are easier to digest. Nothing heavy and fat laden.



Sleep is important not just for weight loss but for your overall health. Insomnia or sleep deprivation can play havoc with your immune system. Your body needs rest to recover so do your best not to deprive it of a natural and peaceful act.



This article is provided by Rachel Buxton, a Fitness Success Team member at The ThinPill.



Want to keep up with diet success tips? Visit us at: http://www.thethinpill.com or follow us on Facebook.



Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Rachel_Buxton

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