A couple of times recently, I’ve been asked “Why Am I Not Losing Weight” or some derivative thereof. I am really truly strongly suggesting that anyone who is battling weight loss, especially when they can’t figure out their roadblocks, take a hard look at two things:
- How much sleep are you getting at night?
- How much water do you drink during the day?
I have been counting calories and journaling food for about a week and a half. Although it is tedious, it is interesting! And, I have had a successful week and a half of weight loss without subsequent gain. While I think counting calories has played a significant part, I think the bigger part for me is the amount of sleep I’ve managed to get in that same time period. On livestrong.com, where I do my food journaling and calorie counting, I found an article about the link between lack of sleep and increased risk of obesity. Very interesting read! I especially cued in on the impact sleep has to metabolism.
I love sleep, actually, so this past week and a half has been great for me. Needless to say, I haven’t been as productive at night, which is usually when I get to catch up on things after a certain two year old falls asleep!
Tags: counting calories, metabolism, sleep
Interesting. On Biggest Loser, they always talk about the importance of sleep in relation to weight loss. This year is the first time I’ve ever heard that.
Thank you for posting this. I seem to notice that, while I am in school (stressed out and countless hours of studying/homework,) I lose less weight. I would guess that lack of sleep has a big part in this.
Julia
http://jewliagoulia.blogspot.com
Good thoughts! I know the days I drink lots of water help me lose weight and I feel better, too. I’ll have to work on the sleep part.
I guess I should stop staying up late then. Going to sleep would also keep me from sitting up watching tv and snacking….makes sense