Weighing in on Sleep

Posted by Kelli Arruzzo

I love sleep. I rest my eyes during the commercials of my favorite television show and recline the seat in the car to get more comfortable. But really, everyone knows what I'm doing: taking a quick little nap. And while I have perfected these short spans of sleep, I tend to stay up late, rushing to do all the things I should have done earlier in the night, pushing my actual bedtime later and later until the total amount of sleep I get daily is under the recommended amount. And when my alarm rings in the morning - I'm definitely feeling it!

Interested in the affect my lack of sleep could be having on my body, I did a little research and found the following information:

Leptin and ghrelin are hormones that work in a "checks and balances" system to control feelings of hunger and fullness. Ghrelin, which is produced in the gastrointestinal tract, stimulates appetite, while leptin, produced in fat cells, sends a signal to the brain when you are full. When you aren't getting enough sleep, it can cause leptin levels to decrease, meaning you won't feel as satisfied after you eat, and could cause ghrelin levels to rise, stimulating your appetite and making you want more food.

Of course, each individual's reaction to these hormones could be different, so don't go sleeping the day away and thinking you'll lose weight. Instead, think of it this way: when you're well rested you'll have more energy and less of a craving for sugar and high caffeine foods to get you going, making it easier to make healthy choices!

So tonight, don't plan on catching me online or on the phone too late. I'll be sleeping my way - without the naps - to a healthier tomorrow. What about you?