Is Too Little Sleep A Cause of Weight Gain?

Can too little sleep cause weight gain? It’s possible.

Studies suggest that not getting enough sleep may negatively affect metabolism. For example, adults who sleep only four hours a night, compared to those who get ten hours, tend to feel hungrier and crave more calorie-rich, high-carb foods. Observational research also shows a link between insufficient sleep and obesity. Similar trends have been observed in children and teens.

One reason for this may be that sleep affects hunger-regulating hormones like ghrelin and leptin. Another reason could be that being sleep-deprived leads to feeling tired, which might reduce physical activity.

This gives you one more reason to aim for a good night’s sleep.