Studies have shown a direct link between sleep deprivation and weight gain; the less sleep a person has, the higher their Body Mass Index, or BMI. Lack of sleep can also negatively affect our personality, immune system and reactions to stress.
What Are The Benefits of Sleep?
Sleep is good for us in so many ways. It is during sleep that our brain and body restore themselves. The brain refuels and refreshes itself by processing the day’s events and restoring mental energy supplies. Sleeping helps us reduce stress and increase bodily muscle function. It can even ease symptoms of anxiety and promote a healthy complexion.
What Happens When I Don’t Get Enough?
A lack of sleep can cause a serious impairment of the immune system, causing you to become sick more frequently and stay sick longer than others. It can also affect attitude and personality, making it more difficult to adjust to changes and causing irritability. Difficulty concentrating and focusing are also symptoms of a lack of sleep. Sleep deprivation has been shown to be detrimental to your coordination and agility.
How Much Sleep Should I Get?
It depends. Most adults find that seven to nine hours are adequate. If you wake up in the morning still drowsy, you need more sleep – it’s as simple as that. Often pregnant women need more sleep, especially during the first few months. Young children and babies require much more sleep that older children, and most teenagers still need more sleep than adults.
Tips To Get More Sleep
- Go to bed earlier.
- Stop drinking caffeine after 1 p.m.
- Use white noise like a fan to muffle background noises.
- Make sure there is a pleasant, relaxing atmosphere in your bedroom.
- Take a warm shower or bath before bed.
- Don’t nap later in the day.
- Relax. Try deep breathing or meditation to clear your mind.
- Invest in a nice mattress.
Get a jump start on your personal weight loss program today.
Sources:
http://www.webmd.com/sleep-disorders/guide/sleep-101
