Can Insomnia Cause Weight Gain? by Paul Stevens

People who are overweight understand that there are many possible health issues that can result from carrying around those extra pounds. A link between insomnia and weight gain has long been suspected by the medical community. A 2009 study, conducted by UCLA researchers, confirmed that suspicion and pinpointed the reason for the link.

The body's hunger impulses are regulated by hormones. Some let the body know when it is hungry. Others let the body know when it is full. There must be a certain balance between the hormones in order for them to function properly.

One reason for the link between insomnia and weight gain is that a lack of sleep distorts the balance between the hormones. This can cause people to feel hungry when in fact their body is full.

Of course, the imbalance of hormones is one reason for the link between insomnia and weight gain, but there may be others.

For example, a person who is sleep deprived is far less likely to put in a vigorous workout than is someone who gets a good night's sleep. Also, insomnia can cause a general feeling of malaise. That can make it more difficult to take the time that is needed to make proper meals.

Not only is there a link between insomnia and weight gain, there is also a link between insomnia and a lack of ability to lose the extra weight. Studies show that lack of sleep can make it more difficult to shed extra pounds, even when all other factors are equal. The reason for this is still not clear to researchers who continue to study this link.

People spend billions of dollars each year to purchase a variety of diet products, gym memberships and to join diet groups. Those desperate to lose weight are willing to try just about anything if they think it will help them take the weight off.

The link between insomnia and weight gain means that there is a painless activity that can help make it easier to shed those extra pounds. Getting a good night's sleep on a regular basis will help you to take control of your eating and make it easier to shed those unwanted pounds.

That is not to say that if you start getting a good night's sleep that the weight will magically disappear. Instead, finding a remedy for the insomnia will be one part of the weight loss equation.

There is definitely a link between insomnia and weight gain. Because being overweight brings the risk of serious medical issues, it is vital that you get the insomnia under control so that you can work toward losing the excess weight.