Adults need between 7-9 hours of sleep each night. But unfortunately, more than a third of Americans aren’t getting enough shut-eye — and over time, this seriously impacts health. Lack of sleep makes you fatigued. It decreases your cognitive performance. And it could even be contributing to your weight problems.
Poor sleeping habits are linked to weight gain and higher body mass index (BMI). That means if you’re not getting enough restful sleep, your weight might increase. And if you’re trying to lose weight, poor sleep could make it harder to see success.
At The Lamkin Clinic, we’re here to help. We know that losing weight isn’t easy, and that’s why Brian Lamkin, DO, and our team offer comprehensive medical weight loss programs that tackle every element of successful weight loss — including sleep — so you can achieve the results you deserve.
In this blog, we’re taking a closer look at the importance of sleep and how your sleep habits could get in the way of a healthier you.
Sleep is one of your body’s most crucial functions. It’s a time of restoration and rejuvenation for your body and your mind, and it’s no surprise that restful sleep is a key element of overall wellbeing.
So what happens if you don’t get enough sleep? Studies suggest that both lack of sleep and poor quality sleep negatively impact your health in a number of ways — one of which is body weight.
Poor sleeping habits are linked to metabolic disorders, weight gain, and increased risk of chronic health conditions like obesity and diabetes. Some of the most common sleep habits that can lead to weight issues include:
While everyone’s sleep needs vary slightly, you need at least six hours of sleep every night to allow your body and brain time to rest.
Consistently getting less than six hours of sleep increases your risk of fatigue and lowers decision-making abilities. When you’re tired, you’re more likely to eat more and avoid exercise, which is a cycle that can continue lowering your quality of sleep over time.
Consistency is critical when it comes to restful sleep. Your body follows a natural clock, called the circadian rhythm, that tells you when it’s time to sleep and wake.
If you go to sleep and wake up at different times each day, the circadian rhythm is disrupted. Changes in your daily sleep schedule can affect your metabolism and reduce your body’s insulin sensitivity, resulting in elevated blood sugar.
When you eat, your body digests the food and turns it into energy for your body. But when you eat right before bed, it can undermine your weight loss goals.
For most people who eat before bed, that late-night snack is an extra meal and, therefore, extra calories. Sleeping right after eating means you won’t burn those calories as effectively, and digesting while you sleep can also cause acid reflux and unrestful sleep.
The links between poor sleep habits and weight problems are clear. The good news is that changing your sleep habits can positively affect your waistline.
Dr. Lamkin and our team take a comprehensive approach to weight loss programs. We partner with you to evaluate your sleeping habits, then help you make healthy changes. These changes might include:
These habits can help you get more restful sleep, which helps your body function better. When paired with a customized diet and exercise plan, it can help you achieve a healthier weight.
Call our Edmond, Oklahoma office at 405-285-4762 or request your weight loss consultation online now.
