Poor sleep prompts unhealthy cravings

Tuesday 26th June 2012

Poor quality sleep can lead to cravings for sugary, high-energy and fatty foods the following day, creating potential weight gain and obesity over time, said the British Association for Applied Nutrition and Nutritional Therapy.

“Sleep deprivation enhances neuronal activity in certain areas of the brain linked to our innate reward system. Lack of sleep also seems to have an effect on glucose intolerance and insulin sensitivity which determines how well our body is able to metabolise energy from foods containing carbohydrates,” Miguel Toribio-Mateas told the Daily Express. “This is significant as impaired insulin sensitivity has been related to food cravings for more sugary foods”

The cycle of poor sleep, low energy levels and the craving for unhealthy foods can be broken by a healthier diet that contributes to a better quality of sleep, starting with, according to the experts, breakfast.

“Breakfast for weary office workers should contain a good source of quality protein,” said Toribio-Mateas. “Studies have shown that meat or eggs is one of the best ways of not feeling that mid-morning slump in energy which tends to be accompanied by the need to snack.”

Tags: sleep cravings diet food

Category: Sleep Research

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