What if one is still not losing weight even with regular exercise, healthy dieting and effective stress management?
Sleep deprivation may be the problem. Sleep plays an important role in regulation of endocrine function and metabolism. Studies on sleep deprivation have shown that it can lead to metabolic and endocrine changes, including decreased glucose tolerance, decreased insulin sensitivity, increased levels of ghrelin and decreased levels of leptin as well as increased hunger and appetite. These metabolic and hormonal changes can lead to over-eating, weight gain and obesity. In addition, studies on sleep deprivation have shown that it is associated with increases in evening cortisol levels. This can contribute further to increased belly fat, weight gain and obesity. What can be done? Cortisol levels usually peak in the morning. Normal cortisol values at 8 a.m. are 6 – 23 micrograms per deciliter. So, stress reduction exercises in the morning can significantly lower cortisol levels for the day. Stress reduction can help promote weight loss and weight management. Avoiding sleep deprivation by get
