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Many people overlook the importance of sleep. We have a lot of research to support why you SHOULD NOT be skipping on sleep.
What is the purpose of sleep?
cleaning the brain of toxin
physical restoration
information processing and memorization
mood regulation
strengthening immune system
What are the stages of sleep?
Stage 1 5-15 minutes, sense of falling, light sleep
Stage 2 5-15 minute, light sleep, heart rate and body temperature drop
Stage 3 & 4 5-15 minutes, deeper sleep, body repairs itself
Stage 5 10 during first cycle, 1 hour during subsquent cycles (need 3-4 cycles/night) REM sleep
Benefits of sleep?
regulates hormones
normalizes leptin and ghrelin -- that control appetite
supports immune system
lowers risk of depression
help muscle recovery/repair
lowers blood pressure- allows heart and vessels rest
improves memory and recall
How does sleep help me lose weight?
There is a direct correlation between chronic sleep deprivation and obesity. Whether that is because of the resulting hormone imbalance, increased cravings for sugar and starchy foods or decreased efficiency of body processes. A study was conducted over 16 years and found that women who sleep less than 5 hours/night were 15% more likely to be obese (BMI > 30). Conversely, too much sleep is also linked to obesity due to reverse causation.
Start tonight! Turn off your Netflix. Give yourself a bedtime. Get your room cool and dark and enjoy the benefits of ZZZZs.
