Why Is Sleep Important for Weight Loss?

Losing excess weight is an obstacle; often the result of the lack of exercise and proper nutrition. Sleep deprivation can affect the body's ability to process information, perform activities and sort out specific foods that may induce weight gain.

• Adequate rest is essential for a healthy body and mind.

Expert Insight

• A study conducted by the American Thoracic Society in 2006 revealed that those sleeping only five hours a night, as opposed to the ideal seven, were at an increased risk of 32 percent to gain excessive weight.

Physical Significance

• Sleeping for at a minimum of seven hours per night is an absolute necessity for losing weight or maintaining a healthy weight. Sleep allows the body to properly metabolize foods, stabilize hormone levels and recharge energy levels--all important aspects of weight loss.

Mental Significance

• When resting, neurons (which are cells located in the central nervous system) have an opportunity to recuperate. Neurons are continuously sending electric pulses to the brain to process information, and tells the body an action involving movement of the limbs is about to occur.

Misconceptions

• "If I do not sleep, then I will allow my body to burn more calories."
  "I can function better when I sleep a little as opposed to sleeping seven hours a night."
  "I feel more energetic when I do not sleep much."
  "The body adjusts to various sleeping patterns easily."

Considerations

• If you do not receive adequate rest, the body will cling to all sources of energy. Fatigued bodies will process food consumed and draw nutrients and minerals that enable the body to perform daily activities.

Warning

• Sleep is required for all living organisms. When focusing on a goal such as losing weight, both body and mind must be functioning correctly in order to succeed. Those who diet and do not receive a proper amount of sleep are at a higher risk for cardiovascular problems, diabetes, obesity and immune system complications.