Ever wondered how much your sleep truly impacts your weight? We consulted experienced dietician Marie-José Torenvliet for evidence-based answers.
Marie-José Torenvliet: "Sleep is vital for processing daily impressions, digesting food, and repairing muscles and organs. It affects not just your energy but your weight too. Studies consistently show that too little or too much sleep contributes to unhealthy weight gain. While healthy eating and exercise were long the focus, sleep is now recognized as a crucial pillar of wellness."
"Sleep loss leads to weight gain in key ways. First, more wakeful hours mean more eating opportunities. Clients in my practice often tire by 10 PM and should retire, but they linger, snacking out of boredom or for energy boosts—what I call 'boredom hunger' among the 15 types detailed in my book Recognize Your Hunger. Busy parents know 'fatigue hunger' well, craving sweets and sodas for quick fuel amid broken nights. Tiredness clouds judgment like alcohol does, prompting junk food choices. For energy, take 5-10 minute daily breaks: ditch the phone, gaze outside, or rest on the couch."
"Skimping on sleep was once glorified, but science reveals its toll. Occasional short nights are okay, but regular five-hour slogs harm health. Adults average 7-8 hours nightly. Oversleeping disrupts regulatory hormones and cuts movement time. Still, sleep alone won't balance weight—it pairs with nutrition, exercise, and stress control."
Read also: Does sleep help during the weekend?
