Women who sleep at least seven hours a night not only benefit from beauty sleep, they’re also less at risk for weight gain over time, according to research. And those who sleep only five hours or less a night are at risk for major weight gain - 33 pounds or more. (Studies on men have been conducted with similar outcomes.)
Previous research has shown that lack of sleep has crucial metabolic effects that can lead to weight gain. For example, if people are sleep-deprived, altered hormones may increase hunger (think about that 4:00 p.m. candy bar attack). They may also feel more fatigued, and in turn, exercise less. Just another reason to prioritize sleep.
