The Importance of Sleep

Yawn! I know I didn't get enough sleep last night. My fault once again because I know how important sleep is to my overall well being, but especially for weight loss. Last night I got about 7 hours of sleep. Most nights I'm pretty good at getting at least 8 hours of sleep. That is the amount of sleep that I need each night in order to function well during the day. Everyone is different. My husband only needs about 6 hours of sleep, but can manage on 4 if he has too. I would be walking comotose if I only got 4 hours of sleep and completely unable to function well on only 6. But getting enough sleep at night is more then just how well you can manage your day. It helps with weight loss too.

While you're sleeping your body is working to restore cell damage and rejuvinate skin, helps keep your immune system at its peak so you don't catch those colds that keep going around quite as often, and keeps your mind sharp and your body more willing and able to do more physical activities. The more we find out about how many benefits come from getting a good night sleep, the more we realize how much we need to respect our bodies need for it. Studies have shown that good sleep habits have been proven to have a restorative effect on the entire body, and help with weight loss.

"One such study regarding the connection between sleeping patterns and obesity was completed by the University of Columbia . They found that with:
. two to four hours of sleep a night - you are 73% more likely to be obese than the normal sleeper, who receives seven to eight hours of sleep a night
. five hours a night - 50% more likely to be obese
. six hours a night - 23% more likely to be obese
. ten-plus hours - 11% LESS likely to be obese (than the normal sleeper)
The theory behind the data is that sleep deprivation can affect the hormones responsible for hunger (Ghrelin) and satiety (Leptin). A lack of sleep can cause a rise in the levels of Ghrelin (with a decrease in Leptin), which triggers overeating. Also, getting plenty of rest replenishes the body so that it can function efficiently each day, which includes a boost in metabolism. " (http://www.dietnation.com/)

Another thing that we are told in the journey to lose weight is to listen to our bodies. To stop eating when we're full and to nap when we're tired. Your body knows how much sleep it needs. Listen to what it's telling you and go to bed earlier so you get the amount of sleep you need for optimal health and well being!