If you’re one of those looking to get in shape, then you have an understanding that there needs to be a change in your lifestyle status quo
Diet and exercise are the most prominent elements of change that people focus their attention on However, there’s another element that holds a significant value in this journey. And that’s: SLEEP
Without an adequate Quality Sleep (not disturbed), you can forget about your fat loss goals (Not to mention general well-being & performance, which is another topic of discussion on its own).
So here’s why you should focus on getting at least 7-8 hours of quality sleep:
1. YOUR BODY REPAIRS & RECOVERS
The act of exercising and going about our routine activities of the day, involve a lot of wear and tear in our cells.
Apart from feeding our body with good nutrition, it needs a good period of rest to make it stronger and more resilient.
Researches have shown a correlation between good sleep and fat loss, as the body utilises calories to aid in the repair and recovery process.
2. IT AFFECTS YOUR APPETITE
A lack of sleep affects the hormone regulation of two important neurotransmitters: ghrelin (increases appetite) & leptin (decreases appetite).
This dysregulation leads to an increased appetite & diminished feeling of fullness in people who are sleep deprived.
So if you constantly craving for those high calorie carbohydrates and sugary delites, have a look into your sleep cycle
3. SLEEP IMPACTS YOUR PHYSICAL PERFORMANCE
Losing sleep can result in having less energy for exercise and physical activity.
This ultimately affects the cycle of an effective fat loss. Because it reduces our capacity to exercise consistently.
Now that you’ve a fair understanding of why sleep matters, here’s some tips to help you sleep better:
1. Stick to a regular sleep schedule
2. Reduce Mobile/TV screen time at least an hour before bed time
3. Have coffee / tea by 12pm
4. Reduce irregular or long day time naps
5. Keep a 2 hour meal gap between dinner and bed time
Fat loss is all about planning your lifestyle. And tired minds don’t plan well.
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