Have you ever tried to analyze the reasons for sudden weight gain? It could be poor quality sleep. Research has shown that lack of sleep can lead to obesity.
Sleep is the time when our brain does its detox, the time when our brain repairs damaged cells, removes dead cells and clears the toxic substances from our body. Along with this, the brain also secretes growth hormones during the sleep cycle. Therefore, a solid 7-8 hours of sleep is necessary for all ages.
How sleeplessness leads to Obesity?
Lack of quality sleep affects the hormones — Leptin and Ghrelin — that regulate our appetite. Leptin, the hormone that makes you feel full, decreases and the hunger-stimulating hormone, Ghrelin, increases thereby making you feel hungry. This hormonal imbalance leads to overweight.
This is most likely compounded by high calorie food at dinner, which not only causes weight gain but has been shown to impact sleep. Even lack of proper exercises can contribute to sleeplessness.
Sleep deprivation is also associated with growth hormone deficiency and elevated cortisol levels, both of which have been linked to obesity. It could also be the root cause of anger, irritability, fatigue, tiredness, frustration and lack of focus. These later develop into health issues such as heart disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, stress and even fertility issues such as PCOS in women.
Considering the adverse effects of sleeplessness on the human body, let’s try and maintain good sleep hygiene. And the earlier you start, the better.
How to improve your sleep routine
- Try not to have foods rich in glucose, sugar, fat and alcohol for dinner; instead choose healthy salads or soups.
- Keep digital gadgets aside at least 2 hours before sleep and avoid taking mobile phones to bed.
- Breathing exercises and meditation are good techniques to improve sleep.
- Cut down on irregular and day naps. An afternoon nap of not more than 20 minutes is recommended.
Benefits of sound sleep
- Boosts immunity.
- Reduces weight.
- Improves heart function.
- Improves focus and productivity.
- Improves memory.
- Improves metabolism.
Yoga Asanas for weight-loss
Nauka Asana – Boat Pose;
Pawanmukt Asana – Wind-Relieving Pose;
Bhujang Asana — Cobra Pose;
Ushtra Asana – Camel Pose;
Paschimottan Asana – Seated Forward Bend;
Titli Asana — Butterfly Pose.
The discipline you bring to your life, particularly in terms of your food, exercise and sleep-wake cycle, can help you keep the kilos away. So take steps today to identify poor habits and replace them with ones that nourish and strengthen. We would, of course, highly recommend a daily 30-minute Yoga routine.
Why not come in for a free evaluation?
Talk to our yoga specialists today to find out how Yoga improves your overall body mechanism and sleep routine. Call 050-395-5613.
0 Comments