Everyday Systems

I'd always heard that sleep deprivation could slow weight loss - but thought that a lot of that was probably due to consuming additional calories while being awake longer. But according to a new study, how much sleep you get determines what kind of weight you lose (more lean muscle mass than fat if you are sleep deprived)

Study:
http://www.annals.org/content/153/7/435.abstract?aimhp

Article about the study:
http://www.foodconsumer.org/newsite/2/O ... 01033.html


Sleep is something I rarely get enough of, and I've always been aware that my sleeping habits were poor and that I should get more of it, but maybe it's time for me to try harder to get to the targeted 8.5 hours (instead of the 4-5 I get now).

Anyone have personal experience with sleep and weight loss?

I've read that we need at least 7 -- so that would be a good place to start. Honestly, I don't think I could sleep 8.5 hours unless I was really sick. Oh, I can now and then, but only once every couple of months or so.

Good idea Sienna

Sleep deprivation causes increased levels of cortisol, and decreased ability to produce insulin.. both are causative factors in disrupting a healthy metabolism.

I think the amount of sleep we need varies from person to person - I feel really sluggish if I get more than 7, or less than 5. But somewhere between there is perfect. I don't know if this affects my eating or metabolism, just my energy levels.