Harvard Study Links Obesity to Sleep Deprivation

Harvard Study Links Obesity to Sleep Deprivation

There are always studies showing the benefits of exercise and diet in relation to weight loss, but Harvard University recently linked sleep deprivation with diabetes and obesity.

According to the research, the male participants slept less than 5.6 hours per day over a three week period.  Over the course of three weeks, the participants showed a decrease in metabolic rate and insulin production.  In addition to the insulin responses, the researchers noted that the sleeping habits also contributed to a 12.5 pound weight gain over the course of a year.

In this day and age it is very difficult to slow down and rest.  It is even more difficult to get the proper amount of sleep we need with the availability of internet and television at all hours of the day.  With increase demands at work and deadlines to meet, we turn to stimulants such as coffee and energy drinks to compensate for the lack of sleep.

My advice to you is to make better use of your time during the waking hours, and make sure to get enough sleep at night.  If you only sleep around 5-6 hours a night, I suggest catching a few more zzz’s.

Dr Spencer Charlet
Chiropractor in Mooresville
704-663-7625