Getting Enough Sleep Is a Key Element to Weight Loss
Are you getting enough vitamin ZZZZ? You need adequate
sleep to lose weight. If you're deprived of 7-8
hours of sleep
regularly, you'll struggle to reach your ideal size.
Also, if you sleep at odd hours that are out of sync
with your biological circadian rhythms, you may also be
unable to lose weight.
Remember the saying, "If you snooze, you'll lose?" Well,
hooray! With weight loss, it's true! Research shows that
if you don't snooze, you'll gain.
How Much Sleep Do I Need?
You require basically the same amount of sleep every
night. The amount you need remains fairly constant
throughout your adult life. Most people need between
7-9 hours every night.
Reducing Sleep Has Real Consequences
Don't fret if your sleep needs are on the high end. It's
not a badge of honor to get by on les sleep. "Getting
by" is fattening. During sleep, your body relaxes and
releases fat. Without enough sleep, your body's cortisol
levels climb and your stress levels are higher, making
your body hoard fat.
Give Yourself Enough Time to Sleep
Plan your life so you get the sleep your body requires.
Yes, some nights you won't get enough sleep, but make
them infrequent. Remember how good you're going to feel
when your jeans finally fit well.
Make Time If You Need To
Here are some quick tips for getting enough sleep:
- Go to bed the same time every night.
- Awaken, if possible, without an alarm clock.
- Keep your bedroom dark, with little to no ambient light.
- Keep your bedroom cool - you'll sleep better.
- Take time to relax before you go to bed.
- Get plenty of exercise, but not right before you go to
bed.
Sleep Disorders
If you think you may have a sleep disorder, you should
seek professional advice from a physician.