Translation: Skimp on the shuteye, and you’ll want to load up on sugary foods the next day. But why? Studies have found that sleep deprivation may suppress the hormones that regulate food intake: Ghrelin, the hunger stimulating hormone, Leptin, the appetite suppressing hormone, and Cortisol, the stress hormone, are all out of whack when you don’t get enough Zzzs.

When your body and brain are tired, you start craving carbs because it’s the fastest way to get a quick energy fix. Because sugar is a simple carb, it has an almost sudden effect on energy levels. Sugar is a massive self-medicator. There’s a real biochemical drive. The body recognises that resources are low and that you need something to act as a crutch.

Unfortunately – sugar’s energy boosting effects last only for a short period of time – and you’ll soon crash, often feeling more tired than you did before the sugary snack attack. However, here’s the thing, although sugar releases brain chemicals that make us feel good, it can lead to addictive behaviour. As your tolerance for sweets build, you may need more to feel satisfied. Yikes!

We all know that too much sugar can lead to a plethora of health problems. We’re talking obesity, Type 2 diabetes, and heart disease. When you eat sugar, almost every part of your body feels the strain. It truly is one of the worst things you can eat (if your want to live a long and healthy life).

According to research published in the journal Sleep, 9 hours a night is the optimal amount of sleep when it comes to your health. Still, everyone’s exact target number is different.

Getting better quality sleep may help with cravings and ultimately, weight loss.

Try these tips to promote a good night’s sleep:

• Avoid caffeine after 2pm.
• Try not to eat heavy meals in the evening.
• Never exercise within 2 to 3 hours of bedtime.
• Stick to a regular sleep schedule to help you to get back to a regular sleep rhythm.
• If you take naps, take them before 3pm and try not to nap for longer than 20 minutes.
• Turn off all devices before going to bed.
• If you have trouble falling asleep, wind down before bedtime – take a bath, read, or listen to calming music.
• Keep your room cool, dark, and well ventilated.

Science is adamant that if you’ve tossed and turned last night, you’ll want to get your hands on a candy bar today.

Lack of sleep affects roughly one third of the population and affects every aspect of daily living. If you’ve tried all of the above lifestyle changes and still struggle with sleep, contact your health care practitioner.

Sleep well everyone.

Source: everlywell.com, womenshealthmag.com, scientificamerican.com, health.clevelandclinic.org, prevention.com, nypost.com, theguardian.com, psychologytoday.com, healthyeatingsfdate.com

DISCLAIMER: The information on this website is for educational purposes only, and is not intended as medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. If you are experiencing symptoms or need health advice, please consult a healthcare professional.