More than 35 percent of U.S. adults suffer from obesity and millions more hover just above the cut-off. While weight gain is typically attributed to poor lifestyle habits, a growing body of evidence suggests that partial sleep deprivation may play a major role.
Influencing Hormones
A study out of the Pennsylvania State University suggests that partial sleep deprivation may increase the risk of obesity by influencing important hormones which are responsible for weight management. While total sleep deprivation is used to define long periods of waking, partial sleep deprivation refers to abbreviated sleeping patterns falling at our below six hours per night.
To reach their findings, researchers analyzed 18 articles covering previous studies which looked at the effects of abbreviated sleep as it related to weight gain. Ultimately, they determined that these past studies demonstrated that poor sleep caused important alterations in ghrelin and leptin: two hormones that regulate appetite.
Attacking the Cause
Many times, people owe their sleeping problems to bad habits that keep them awake at night. That said, millions of Americans can blame sleep apnea causing partial sleep deprivation that promotes fatigue and weight gain.
In many cases, sleep apnea is a double-edged sword that can negatively impact our health in more than one way. This dangerous disorder has been linked to dementia, diabetes, heart disease, cancer and even bone problems; while obesity has also been linked to a myriad of medical issues. Put the two together, and you’ve got a time bomb just waiting to go off.
To protect your health and get the rest you deserve, you need a remedy for sleep apnea that will allow you to sleep comfortably every night. Contact Dr. Berry online or call (303) 691-0267 to learn how oral appliance therapy can help.
