There are a plethora of reasons to find a consistent sleep schedule and stick to it. The benefits are abundant as most everyone is aware of. So what about the risks that come along with not maintaining a consistent sleep schedule? Here are just some of the effects that a poor sleep routine can have on your life.
Weight Gain
A lack of sleep can have a severe impact on one’s physical appearance. Keeping your body from what it needs has been linked to weight gain. Studies show that a lack of sleep can lead to increased levels of a hunger hormone called Ghrelin. Additionally, decreased levels of the “fullness” hormone called leptin are also linked with a poor sleep schedule. This is a detrimental combination for anyone trying to lose weight or stay in a relatively good physical condition.
Skin Issues
An inconsistent sleep routine can also lead to issues for one’s skin. Everyone is familiar with the puffy or irritated eyes that often accompany a bad night’s rest. However, habitually depriving your body of the hours of sleep it needs can lead to more problems than just that. When your body doesn’t get enough sleep, it releases the stress hormone called cortisol. Cortisol breaks down skin collagen, which is the protein that keeps skin smooth and elastic. Also, deep sleep promotes the release of a hormone that assists with muscle growth in adults. Allowing your body the proper time it needs to recover each day will result in skin that appears fresh and youthful.
Heart Disease
The consequences can sometimes be even more serious. Poor sleeping habits have been shown to have such a negative effect on the body that they can even result in heart disease. A lack of sleep can increase insulin resistance, which can lead to the development of type 2 diabetes and other various forms of circulatory problems. Studies found that short sleepers are at greater risk of heart disease or a stroke than those who sleep 7-8 hours a night. When asleep, the heart rate slows down, however, when there is not a chance to recover, the heart will expand over time. An enlarged heart will take in less oxygen and work less efficiently. The body works incredibly hard to function every day, so allowing it to recover is something that is crucial for anyone who strives for a healthy lifestyle.
Contact Us
These are just some of the issues that come along with a rough sleep schedule. If you or anyone you know are having problems with your sleep routine, please feel free to contact our office to learn how we can help you. Our passionate staff is ready and willing to assist you in any area we possibly can.