We thought the only way sleeping could help you lose weight was the fact that if you are actually sleeping, you can’t physically be eating! Well, a new study shows that spending an extra 90 minutes in bed can significantly mute your sugar cravings.

It’s proven that not getting enough sleep is a risk factor for obesity because it affects the hormone levels linked to your appetite, but it turns out that those who tend to get more sleep, naturally opt for healthier food choices too. Studies have shown that people who sleep less than seven hours a day are 30% more likely to be obese than those who sleep for nine hours or more.

The Telegraph, highlighted the research by scientists from King’s College London, who monitored volunteers, asking them to: “Keep a constant bedtime, resist caffeine and food before bed and try and relax in the evenings. On average the groups were able to add 90 minutes to their daily sleep patterns over the seven-day study period.”

By the end of the trial, results showed that they were cutting out more sugar and carbs, than at the beginning of the study.

Speaking to The Telegraph, lead researcher, Haya Al Khatib, from Kings College, said: “Our results suggest that increasing time in bed for an hour or so longer may lead to healthier food choices. This further strengthens the link between short sleep and poorer quality diets that has already been observed by previous studies.”

But with busy lives and hectic schedules, getting a good night’s sleep is easier said than done. So to help you, here are a few tips from the One You site, to help you get the best night’s sleep.

33519176 - overweight woman asleep in bed Want to lose weight? Sleep yourself slimmer
Image Credit: www.123rf.com.

Create a relaxing environment
Have a wind down routine. Remove distractions, like your TV, computer and phone, from your bedroom.

 

Take control of worries
If you struggle to switch off due to ongoing worries, try to deal with them head on. Seeking help for your problem is the first step to getting them dealt with.

 

Look at your lifestyle
Try to avoid stimulants like caffeine, nicotine and alcohol before you go to bed. Avoid high energy exercises in the evening, instead go for some more relaxing exercises. Big meals are a no, no as well as chocolate, they contain caffeine too.

 

So, there are no excuses. Want to lose a few extra pounds? Have that lay in that you keep depriving yourself of. It’s all for a good cause.
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