We live in a very fast paced world. There's no doubt about that that. We want things done fast and efficiently.
It's because today's society demands speed, efficiency and fast results, that jobs these days are a lot more demanding than they were in the past.
People work longer hours and have less time for leisure. They are constantly stressed out and harried at work.
Did you know?…More people die of heart attacks on a Monday than any other day of the week.
In order to keep up with hectic schedules, one of the first things to get sacrificed is sleep. That seems to be the easiest way to get more done since you have more time. It’s easier to sleep less than increase productivity.
It’s easier to consume energy drinks and stay awake than to tell your boss the workload is ridiculous.
What most people fail to realize is that being constantly deprived of sleep will take a toll on your health in the long run.
So, how does sleep affects your weight and weight loss?
Research has shown that people who have less sleep eat more, feel hungrier and generally consume 350 calories more than required. Those who stay awake late often find themselves consuming snacks and heavy meals often.
Your body’s insulin sensitivity and glucose tolerance levels will drop. This is bad since your body will go into fat storage mode instead of being in fat burning mode.
Dissatisfaction at the workplace is the number one reason people are stressed.
When your insulin sensitivity is down, you will store fat much more easily. The same applies for glucose tolerance.
Lack of sleep also increases the body’s stress hormone, cortisol. Once again the body’s fat burning ability decreases or in a worst case scenario, just completely stops.
If you’re eating on a caloric deficit and training daily, your body is already stressed out. It needs sleep to rest and repair itself. Not to mention de-stress.
There is a reason it is referred to as “beauty sleep”.
All the best attempts at losing weight will be hampered if you can’t afford to get enough sleep at night.
Power naps during the day will not cut it. You need sleep at night for at least 7 hours.
Most people claim to get by on less. They may… but at a price to their health in the long run.
Aim to be more productive so that you get more work done in the office and don’t have to stay late.
Stop watching late night TV and do not work out too close to bedtime. Ideally, you should be working out in the day.
Try and meditate to free your mind from the daily stresses of life. Remember, even if you win the rat race, you’re still a rat. There is more to life than deadlines, targets and appraisals.
Get enough sleep and you will find it much easier to shed the fat. The power of a good night’s sleep should never be underestimated.
Yours in Health,
Danette
P.S. Please share this with your friends and I welcome your comments below.
