We’ve all been there…that 3 p.m. slump when we crave something sweet or salty. But it doesn’t have to be this way. Did you know that getting more sleep may help with resisting poor food choices? Yes! And there is research to prove it.
Researchers from St. Luke’s Roosevelt Hospital Center and Columbia University in New York observed the brain activity of 25 normal-weight volunteers after five nights of sleep deprivation—four hours of sleep—and five nights of normal sleep.
This study’s findings underline the link between a lack of sleep and an increase in cravings for unhealthy, calorie-dense foods. When participants looked at pictures of unhealthy food like pepperoni pizza, cheeseburgers and cake, the pleasure-seeking centers of their brains were activated more. In other words, they were more inclined to choose an unhealthy item, on impulse. More sleep might make it easier to say “no.” This study could explain why people who sleep less than their peers might be more inclined to obesity.
While there needs to be more research conducted on this phenomenon, it is certainly food for thought. Instead of catching that late-night program tonight, you might want to turn in early. It could mean a better tomorrow and a slimmer you.