Can Lack of Sleep Cause Weight Gain?

Susan, a Glenny’s fan, asks:
I’m not getting much sleep every night. Could my lack of sleep be getting in the way of my weight-loss efforts? What are some recommendations?

Thanks.

Susan

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Comments

2 Responses to “Can Lack of Sleep Cause Weight Gain?”

  1. dri on August 21st, 2008 5:55 am

    There seems to be some evidence that a lack of sleep contributes to weight gain. Supposedly, lack of sleep lowers the amount of leptin your body produces. Leptin is a protein that suppresses appetite and tells your brain when your stomach is full. In addition, there is another hormone, Cortisol, that is usually released in response to emotional and physical stress. Cortisol is released at an increased rate when we don’t get enough sleep. This can also contribute to a feeling of hunger and, thus, overeating.

    But the key issue is to address the reasons you aren’t sleeping well. Is your stress level or caffeine intake to blame? Or your sleeplessness could be the result of sleep apnea, a common but very serious condition in which breathing is obstructed or ceases altogether at times during sleep. Try seeing a doctor to learn what may be causing your sleep trouble.

    Good luck!

  2. Robert Jackson on September 29th, 2008 12:49 pm

    I have been able to maintain a certain weight for the last couple of years. But in the last couple of months I have been losing weight. I work 12 hours a day mostly on my feet. I eat one good meal a day and try to snack at night. I am constantly tired and is unable to sleep waking up and can’t go back

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