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Friday, September 30, 2011

Why Nighttime Calories Are Worse For Your Waist

I’m a world champion at sleeping, but I know my diet is worse when I don’t get my regular eight to nine hours. I tend to reach for more food—especially carbs—to help wake me up. It never works and probably makes me feel less energized.

Research now backs up why less sleep equals more calories.

Several studies have found that getting at least six hours of sleep appears to help us maintain a healthier weight. Researchers now know that brain hormones and chemicals responsible for hunger and fullness are closely tied to our natural circadian rhythms. When we get less sleep, appetite increases—as do cravings for high-calorie foods.

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