Do not underestimate the importance of sleep for a healthy lifestyle. Sleeping allows the human body a chance to hit the ‘reset’ button. It marks the optimal time for repair– both internal and external– because the mind and body are at rest. However, even though it’s resting the work never stops. In fact, it launches into overdrive. Sleep makes for healthier people who look and feel better, and believe it or not, getting the extra 2 hours of sleep can make a huge difference.
There are consequences of not getting enough sleep
Negative consequences associated with lack of sleep include memory problems, moodiness, high blood pressure, weakened immune response, and weight gain. Additionally, it has been linked to decreased sex drive. Most shocking is the correlation between poor sleep and death. The Whitehall II Study, conducted by British researchers, examined how sleep patterns affect the mortality of over 10,000 British civil servants. Analyzed over the course of two decades, the study demonstrated that those who cut their sleep to five or fewer hours a night nearly doubled their risk of death from all causes, especially cardiovascular disease.
Low sleep causes irritability
Irritability is something that may occur when a person does not receive the appropriate amount of sleep that he or she needs. Irritability occurs because of a shift in hormones. The sleep deprived person may explode and yell easily without knowing why such a reaction is manifesting. The irritable person may be quite irrational, as well. Lack of sleep tends to throw people off in several areas of importance.
You experience long-lasting fatigue
It’s not a surprise that a lack of sleep causes one to be tired, but many people do not realize that a lack of sleep causes long-lasting fatigue. Often times, it takes a person several days to recover from a lack of sleep that occurred several days previously. The long-lasting fatigue may occur because of a condition that comes from extended sleep loss. Statistics show that a lack of sleep can contribute to the development of a condition such as diabetes and high blood pressure.
Not enough sleep causes weight gain
Since a direct link exists between sleep deprivation and weight gain, it is imperative to recognize the importance of 6 to 8 hours of quality sleep for weight loss. Sleeping adequately proves just as important as hitting the gym and eating sufficient fruits and vegetables. Fusing the positive aspects of protein and sleep proves helpful with shedding unwanted pounds. According to ‘The American Journal for Clinical Nutrition’ casein protein can assist with weight loss. Two diets were compared: one with 10% of energy intake from casein protein and the other with 25% of energy intake from casein protein. “The 25 percent casein diet showed an increase in energy expenditure and satiety…researchers concluded that an increased casein intake could be beneficial in managing weight and improving body composition.” Consider adding casein protein powder to a smoothie or some hot tea before bed. Because this particular type of protein can take up to seven hours to digest [as opposed to the typical protein sources associated with speedy post-workout muscle replenishment], it is ideal for nighttime consumption so your body can reap the benefits while you sleep. Casein protein powder enables better recovery during slumber by stimulating the use of body fat and minimizing amino acid waste. Think bigger and leaner.
To Sum Up: Don’t skimp on sleep
Never skimp on sleep. It’s long term negative effects far outweigh any reason for why you’re currently shortening your sleep cycle. Not only will getting that extra 2 hours of sleep each night increase you overall health, you will are sure to see a drastic change in your overall happiness. Optimal fat burning and time to recharge and repair are only two of the numerous benefits associated with a good night’s sleep. Your body will thank you.
