GO TO BED!

A little birdie said this March will be the last time we will “spring forward” and lose an hour of sleep but considering that most of us do not get enough quality sleep to begin with, going to bed should be a top priority. Getting less than the recommended 7-9 hours of uninterrupted sleep has been linked, not surprisingly, to increased fatigue (which might make you eat more to boost your energy), irritability, high blood pressure, diabetes, hormonal imbalances, you guessed it- weight gain. Think of sleep as a way to reset your clock and right the wrongs of the previous 16 hours.

Chronic lack of quality sleep can affect the way your body normally functions especially the hormones that tell your body when to eat and when to stop eating. Also, your metabolism and digestion can be impaired by not getting enough sleep. If going to bed and staying asleep are challenges for you, try adjusting your pre-sleep routine by avoiding the following: eating heavy meals or consuming caffeine within a few hours of bed; falling asleep with the television or the lights on; and strenuous exercise right before bed. Lack of sleep can be a sign of an underlying health issue like sleep apnea so please talk to your doctor if your situation does not improve.

Here's to good sleep and sleep more abundant! 🥂

©Tasha D. Manigo-Bizzell