Without 7-8 hours of sleep each night it is impossible for the body to function at its highest level. It is during this time asleep that the body’s hormones regulate, and the bodies tissues can repair and regenerate themselves.
When the body is sleep deprived, it will have increased cravings for sugar and simple carbs. The reason for this is because the body is low on energy and the sugar will provide a quick boost. The downside is that this boost doesn’t last long and will need another hit of sugar to keep going.
Many times, those who claim to have a “sweet tooth” will find that this sweet tooth decreases with adequate sleep.
Additionally, spending most days sleep deprived is a stressor on the body that causes increases in cortisol levels. When this happens, the body does not process fat properly and tends to store more.
So here are a few tips to get good night’s sleep.
- Aim for 7-8 hours every night. You cannot make up lost sleep over the weekends.
- Avoid alcohol within 3-4 hours of going to bed.
- Go to bed and wake up at the same time each day or within a half hour difference.
- Avoid electronics (iPhone, iPad, Computer, and TV) within one hour of going to bed. The light from these devices is similar to the waking am sunshine and triggers your body to want to wake up, which makes it hard to fall asleep.
- Keep your bedroom cold and dark, which means around 68 degrees and no night lights.