Here’s yet another reason to get 8 hours of sleep every day. A recent study demonstrated that one night of sleep deprivation can lead to the same degree of impaired insulin sensitivity that is usually associated with 6 month of high-fat diet.
When the body becomes less sensitive to insulin (insulin resistant), it needs to produce more insulin to stabilise blood sugar levels. This may lead to type 2 diabetes – a condition where the body’s insulin response is compromised and there is too much sugar in the blood.
One sleepless night equals 6 months of high-fat diet
Both sleep deprivation and high-fat diet have been associated with insulin resistance. However, it was previously unknown which leads to more insulin sensitivity. The study suggests that one sleepless night can cause the same amount of insulin resistance as 6 months on a high-fat diet. The findings indicate the importance of good sleep and the role it plays in preventing obesity and diabetes.
The study also revealed that sleep deprivation can increase chances of other metabolic diseases. While individuals suffering from obesity and other metabolic ailments realize the importance of balanced diet and exercise, good sleep is often compromised. While the amount of sleep that a healthy individual requires depends on factors such as genetics and age, it is considered good practice to sleep for 7-8 hours each night.
Afternoon naps should be avoided in order to sleep better at night. If you’re a caffeine junkie, make sure you’re are having your cup of joe before 12 noon as the half-life of caffeine is 5-7 hours. Restrict your coffee or tea intake to two cups. In the evening, if you must have your tea, then prefer chamomile tea. Research indicates that chamomile tea can aid sleep. Avoid green tea if you suffer from insomnia as the high content of caffeine in green tea nullifies its health benefits.
For more tips on how to sleep better, follow these Ayurvedic guidelines.
