Sleep is very important in keeping away obesity and maintaining body metabolism, says Dr Vichar Nigam consultant physician, internal medicine, Manipal Hospitals, Pune.
Lack of sleep leads to poor suppression of appetite & overeating while good sleep helps regulate hormones that can stimulate or suppress appetite.
Regulates hunger hormones
Good sleep boosts the metabolic functions of the body, aids in the efficient burning of calories and helps to maintain a healthy body weight.
Boosts metabolism
Good sleep reduces the stress hormone, cortisol. Due to poor sleep, cortisol levels increase and lead to abdominal fat.
Reduces stress
When you sleep on time, you make healthier food choices, avoid late-night snacking & resist the temptation of alcohol and high-calorie foods.
Healthy food choices
Quality sleep helps regulate blood sugar levels and improves insulin sensitivity. This reduces the risk of type-2 diabetes.
Regulate blood sugar levels
With consistent sleep patterns, the body's circadian rhythm is restored, thereby optimizing metabolism & energy expenditure.
Restores circadian rhythm