How Sleep and Weight Loss Go Hand-in-Hand
Struggling to get good, restful sleep at night? If so, you’re not alone. Lack of quality, restful sleep can be linked to various health issues, such as weight gain, fatigue, and even depression. At Soza Weight Loss, we understand how difficult it can be to get good sleep, especially if you’re also struggling with your weight.
That’s why we promote healthier lifestyle choices that include getting adequate rest. This practical approach can help you reach your weight loss goals overall. To consult with a team member regarding more ways you can live healthy and achieve your weight loss goals, give us a call at (504) 475-9817.
The Sleep, Stress, Weight Triad
Achieving your weight loss goals is easier with more sleep and less stress. Not getting enough shut-eye can make it harder for your body to process glucose, which can lead to weight gain. Sleep deprivation can also lead to increased levels of Cortisol (the stress hormone) that can increase appetite and cravings for unhealthy foods.
As stated by the American Academy of Sleep Medicine, people who get fewer hours of sleep or go to bed later are more likely to be overweight or obese than those who get adequate rest. Getting 7-8 hours of restful sleep each night could help reduce stress and improve overall health, making it easier to meet your weight loss goals.
Why Sleep Matters
For those looking to lose weight, getting enough quality sleep should be a priority. While it may not be widely known, there is a connection between weight loss and sleep. Studies have shown that there is a correlation between lack of restful sleep and weight gain. According to research cited by the National Library of Medicine, people who do not get sufficient quality sleep are more likely to engage in unhealthy behaviors, such as eating more calories, engaging in sedentary activities, and making poor dietary choices.
Similarly, losing weight can help with sleep quality. A recent Johns Hopkins study has revealed that losing weight, particularly in the abdominal area, can significantly improve your quality of sleep. The study found that participants who lost weight around their abdomen and reduced their waist circumference reported better quality sleep than those who did not.
People who are sleep deprived may struggle to regulate their appetite and reduce cravings for unhealthy foods. Sleep deprivation can also interfere with hormones related to hunger, fullness, and appetite that influence eating behaviors. Lack of sleep can also lead to fatigue and depressed moods, impacting well-being. To reach your health goals, it’s important to prioritize getting good quality sleep, in addition to making healthy diet choices. At Soza Weight Loss, we recognize the importance of both proper rest and nutrition for achieving better health outcomes.
Improved Sleep Starts with Healthy Bedtime Routines
Having a healthy bedtime routine can be vital to reaching your weight loss goals. A few simple steps can help you get the restful sleep you need to succeed include:
- Avoiding screens for at least an hour before bed, as this can interfere with falling asleep quickly
- Ensuring you eat dinner a few hours before bedtime and avoid large meals late in the evening
- Taking a warm shower or bath and do gentle stretching or yoga to help relax your body and mind
- Setting aside time each night for meditation or positive affirmations to release stress and create a peaceful atmosphere for sleep
When we get the restful sleep our bodies need, it can help to stabilize hormones that regulate hunger and metabolism. Not only does this manage cravings better, but it also helps reduce stress, which can lead to emotional eating habits. A good night’s sleep also gives us the energy to be more active throughout the day, which is key to weight loss success.
Taking a few simple steps and establishing a healthy bedtime routine can go a long way in achieving sustainable weight loss goals. For more assistance, the Soza Weight Loss team is always here to help – contact us at (504) 475-9817 to get started.