Good news for those who love their sleep: skipping the gym in favor of a cozy bed could actually be better for your health. When faced with the choice between a workout and getting a solid night’s sleep, experts suggest prioritizing rest. While exercise certainly has its advantages, sacrificing sleep for it can undermine your health goals.
The Drawbacks of Skipping Sleep for Exercise
Opting for a workout over sufficient sleep comes with several drawbacks. One significant issue linked to insufficient sleep is an increase in body fat percentage. Dr. Alex Thompson shared with Health Magazine, “Getting less than 7-8 hours of sleep each night is associated with a higher body fat percentage.” Research indicates that individuals who average just 6 hours of sleep are 27% more likely to be overweight, and that figure rises dramatically for those getting only 5 hours, who are 73% more likely to struggle with their weight.
The Impact of Sleep on Body Fat
Moreover, inadequate sleep can lead to an increase in abdominal fat, which is particularly concerning and difficult to lose. Nutritionist Mia Johnson explained, “Elevated cortisol levels can trigger fat storage around the midsection.” Insufficient sleep can cause spikes in cortisol levels. “Studies have measured cortisol in sleep-deprived individuals, revealing heightened levels after a night of poor sleep, especially during the late afternoon to early evening,” she noted.
Hormonal Disruption and Its Effects
Sleep deprivation also disrupts hormone levels, making it harder to maintain a healthy lifestyle. Dr. Thompson added, “Ghrelin is the hormone that controls hunger, while Leptin signals fullness.” After a night of inadequate sleep, Ghrelin levels rise and Leptin levels drop, leading to increased hunger and a reduced sense of fullness. This explains why you might find yourself devouring half a pizza when you’re tired.
Cravings and Food Choices
Additionally, the cravings for high-calorie foods often intensify when sleep is lacking. Research from a team at Uppsala University in Sweden found that sleep-deprived individuals tend to choose foods that are, on average, 9% higher in calories compared to when they are well-rested. And let’s not forget that after a workout, your body requires sleep for recovery. “Muscle repair and new cell generation occur during sleep; therefore, lack of rest can hinder your ability to build essential fat-burning muscle,” Johnson stated.
Conclusion
In summary, if you’re aiming to enhance your health, focus on catching those Z’s before hitting the gym. Prioritizing sleep can lead to better overall health outcomes, so make the bedroom your first stop before conquering your fitness goals.
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