Getting Enough Sleep May Aid Weight Loss Efforts

According to research presented on October 18, 2005, at the annual meeting of The Obesity Society, getting your Z's may help you lose weight!

A study presented by researchers from Laval University, Quebec, showed sleep may influence levels of leptin -- a hormone produced by fat cells.

Leptin affects body weight regulation in the hypothalamus by suppressing appetite and burning fat stored in tissue. Additionally, the research suggested that there may be an "ideal sleep zone" that helps the body regulate its weight.

"This is a new and very exciting area of research which raises the possibility that lack of sleep may be an unrecognized and potentially modifiable risk factor for obesity," explained Jean-Philippe Chaput, who conducted the study.

"Getting the optimal amount of sleep, along with modifications to diet and exercise may become an integral prevention and treatment strategy for weight management," said Chaput.

Americans sleep one to two hours less per night than they did 40 years ago during which time obesity rates have increased, the researchers pointed out.

Previous studies have suggested the link between lack of sleep and leptin levels.

Leptin has a direct impact on the development and retention of fatty tissues in the body.

To fall asleep easier and sleep better, give some of these suggestions a try:

• Have a light, healthful snack before bed.
• Take a warm bath before turning in.
• Don't use your bed for other activities like eating, reading or watching TV.
• Limit or cut-out caffeine beverages.
• Avoid alcohol as it can disrupt your sleep pattern.
• Rise at the same time daily ... even on weekends.
• Exercise regularly, but not too close to bedtime.

Sleep disruption -- not staying asleep, rather than not getting to sleep -- has also been shown to have an effect on levels of leptin and ghrelin (a hormone that signals satiety). One of the many causes of sleep disruption among adults is overactive bladder. Talk to your physician about medications such as Detrol LA to help this problem.