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Sleep helps regulate hunger hormones, influencing our food choices from "summary" of Why We Sleep by Matthew Walker
When it comes to our food choices, sleep plays a crucial role in regulating the hormones that govern our hunger. Ghrelin is a hormone that signals hunger to the brain, while leptin is a hormone that signals fullness. When we don’t get enough sleep, our ghrelin levels increase, making us feel hungrier. At the same time, our leptin levels decrease, reducing our feelings of fullness. This hormonal imbalance can lead to overeating and weight gain. In addition to affecting our hormone levels, sleep deprivation also affects the brain regions responsible for decision-making. When we are sleep deprived, the prefrontal cortex – the part of the brain involved in making complex decisions – becomes less active. This can impair our ability to make healthy food choices and resist cravings for unhealthy foods. As a result, we are more likely to reach for sugary, high-calorie snacks when we are tired. Furthermore, the connection between sleep and food goes beyond just hormones and brain activity. Studies have shown that sleep deprivation can lead to changes in our food preferences. When we are sleep deprived, we are more likely to crave foods that are high in fat and sugar. This is because sleep deprivation disrupts the balance of hormones that regulate appetite and can alter our brain’s reward system, making unhealthy foods more appealing.- The relationship between sleep and food is complex and multifaceted. By understanding how sleep influences our hunger hormones and food choices, we can better appreciate the importance of getting enough quality sleep for our overall health and well-being. Prioritizing sleep can help us make healthier food choices, maintain a healthy weight, and reduce our risk of chronic diseases.
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