Are you getting enough rest? Do you find yourself munching on snacks the day after a poor night’s sleep? Studies have suggested that sleep deprivation affects the hormones that control appetite. Lack of sleep may heighten your desire for food as a reward.
172 individuals participated in 11 sleep studies white the designs of the studies varied, however, each participant was tested after a night of limited sleep, usually about four hours, and then again after a night of normal rest. After each test, the participants were offered a breakfast buffet or scheduled meals later in the day. Scientists kept track of the participants calorie intake and energy expenditure.
Analysts from the European Journal of Clinical Nutrition, found that after a night of restricted sleep, people consumed an average of 385 extra calories the next day. This extra calorie intake is equivalent to consuming frosted cupcake or a serving of French fries. Participants also consumed more fat than protein.
Researchers acknowledge that the studies have small samples and that the controlled laboratory conditions were minimal. However, Gerda K. Pot of King’s College London, said the subject is worth investigating further. She believes that poor sleep could be a risk factor for obesity and is something that we could help change.
Source: The New York Times
