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.
