The importance of sleep

For most people a good night’s sleep is a precursor to enjoying their day, but did you know that a good night’s sleep is just as important for your health as exercising and healthy eating? Here are 9 reasons why sleep is important to your health.

Weight loss

Lack of sleep affects the two hunger hormones leptin and ghrelin. When your body is not well-rested, the hormone that determines fullness (leptin) is lowered, while the hormone that determines hunger (ghrelin) is higher. This means that without a good night’s sleep you are more likely to be hungry.¹

Concentration and Performance

Lack of sleep is a huge factor in being unable to concentrate and perform at work. As sleep helps improve brain function, a good night’s sleep can ensure that you perform better at work.³

Lack of sleep can amplify problems such as depression and anxiety

For those suffering from depression and anxiety, lack of quality sleep can amplify these symptoms, making life even harder. A good night’s sleep will make it easier to manage these problems.¹

Quality sleep can improve your immune function

Lack of sleep can lower the infection-fighting bodies and cells in the body, making you more susceptible to colds and viruses.²

Lack of sleep is linked to inflammation

Chronic insomnia can increase the risk of inflammation in the body, which in turn, can lead to diseases such as arthritis, as well as problems with the digestive, endocrine, and cardiovascular systems.¹

Lack of sleep can negatively affect your emotions

Sleeplessness can not only leave you feeling surly and agitated, but it can also decrease your social skills. Research has shown that people who consistently missed out on sleep struggled with social interactions, and with engaging with others.²

Increased risk of health problems

As sleep is a natural healer, consistent sleeplessness can lead to physical problems such as heart problems and stroke. This is due to sleeplessness leading to disruptions in natural biological processes such as glucose metabolism, blood pressure and inflammation.¹

Increases athletic performance

For athletes who need to be at the peak of their physical abilities, a good night’s sleep can mean better performance, increased speed, and more agility.²

Sleep affects metabolism

Poor sleep habits are strongly related to blood sugar problems, while consistent lack of sleep can wreak havoc on a person’s metabolism.¹

One of the best things that we can do for our health is ensure that we have a quality night’s sleep. Not only will quality sleep decrease our risk of illness, but it will also ensure that we have higher physical and mental performance.

References

1. https://www.healthline.com/health/sleep-deprivation/effects-on-body
2. https://www.healthline.com/health/science-sleep-why-you-need-7-8-hours-night
3. https://www.resmed.com/us/en/consumer/diagnosis-and-treatment/healthy-sleep/what-happens-during-sleep.html