A weight loss expert has revealed that a simple lifestyle change could be the key to kickstarting your fitness journey in the New Year. The festive period is often a time of indulgence, with many Brits looking to reset their habits as the New Year chimes in.
Alongside festive feasting and disrupted daily routines, numerous Brits plan various lifestyle changes as part of their New Year's resolutions. Forbes Advisor reports that 40 per cent of people who set New Year's resolutions typically commit to exercising more, with 35 per cent focusing on weight loss, reports Gloucestershire Live.
Anne Larchy, a weight loss and healthy lifestyle coach, shared an often overlooked tip with the Mirror that can assist people on their 'get fit' journey. She suggests that getting more and better quality sleep can make it easier to commit to healthier lifestyle changes.
"Sleep more and better. Throughout the holidays most of us watch more movies or scroll our phones late at night," she said. "Get back (or start) a proper bedtime routine. Stop your electronics 30 to 60 minutes before bedtime. Go back to sleep at normal times again.
"Sleep regulates hunger hormones, stress hormones, and helps your body process and recover. Without a good night's sleep, you're tired, unfocused, have cravings, and grumpy. All those will prevent you from making the right decisions when it comes to food and exercise."
A study featured in the JAMA Internal Medicine journal has revealed that individuals who sleep less tend to consume more calories, including a higher desire for high-calorie snacks, compared to those who get ample sleep. The research involved 80 overweight participants.
The Sleep Foundation further elaborated on this, stating that previous studies have shown that lack of sleep can hinder weight loss and promote overeating. They also provided several tips for improving sleep while on a weight loss journey.
- Keep a regular sleep schedule: Big swings in your sleep schedule or trying to catch up on sleep after a week of late nights can cause changes in metabolism and reduce insulin sensitivity, making it easier for blood sugar to be elevated.
- Sleep in a dark room: Exposure to artificial light while sleeping, such as a TV or bedside lamp, is associated with an increased risk of weight gain and obesity.
- Don’t eat right before bed: Eating late may reduce the success of weight loss attempts.
- Reduce Stress: Chronic stress may lead to poor sleep and weight gain in several ways, including eating to cope with negative emotions.
- Be an Early Bird: People with late bedtimes may consume more calories and be at a higher risk for weight gain. Early birds may be more likely to maintain weight loss when compared to night owls.
