“Work” on your sleep.
Sleep is a powerful yet often overlooked weight-loss tool. Poor sleep disrupts key hormones like ghrelin, which increases appetite, and leptin, which signals fullness. This imbalance intensifies cravings for unhealthy foods, weakens willpower, and makes overeating more likely—even when you’re not truly hungry.
Upgrading your sleep can help you curb cravings, boost willpower, and support weight loss.
Here’s how to do it:
1. Stick to a Consistent Sleep Schedule
Go to bed and wake up at the same time every day—even on weekends. Pair this habit with morning sunlight exposureto regulate your internal clock and improve sleep quality.
2. Build a Calming Nighttime Routine
Set yourself up for success by creating a routine that prepares your body for rest:
Stop eating 3 hours before bed to allow your body to “rest and digest.”
Disconnect from screens 1 hour before sleep to reduce blue light exposure.
Replace screen time with calming activities like:
Gentle stretching
Sipping herbal tea
Reading or journaling
3. Consider Natural Supplements
For extra support, consider these natural options to promote relaxation and deeper sleep:
4. Address Potential Sleep Disruptors
Caffeine: Avoid caffeine after 2 pm to protect your sleep cycle (ideally stop at 12 pm).
Alcohol: Be mindful that wine and sugary cocktails can disrupt restorative sleep (Sugar will wake you up in the middle of the night).
Medications: Check if any medications you take have side effects that impact sleep. If needed, consult your doctor about alternatives.
THE BOTTOM LINE
Improving your sleep isn’t just about feeling rested—it’s a critical step in supporting your weight loss journey. By balancing your hormones and reducing cravings, good sleep helps you make better choices and feel more in control.
Start small: set a bedtime, power down your devices, and make rest a priority. Sleep is where the magic happens—so start “working” on it today!
