Sleep deprivation is a cause of overeating.

Many people associate weight gain with poor diet or lack of physical activity. However, insufficient sleep is actually one of the main causes of increased hunger and excess weight.

According to scientific research, if a person sleeps less than 7–8 hours a day, the level of ghrelin — a hormone that increases hunger — rises in the body. At the same time, the level of leptin — the hormone responsible for feeling full — decreases.

As a result: every sleepless night puts your body into "hunger mode." This leads to:

• increased cravings for high-calorie, fatty, and sugary foods;

• overeating;

• slower metabolism;

• and an average weight gain of around 2 kg per year.

Note: sleep is just as important a source of energy for the body as food. When it’s lacking, the body tries to compensate through food intake.

Conclusion: If you want to lose excess weight, don’t rely solely on diet and exercise. Quality and sufficient sleep is an essential part of a healthy body and stable weight.