5 Ways to Improve Your Sleep for a Healthier Weight

Missing out on quality sleep can affect many areas of your well-being, including your weight. A night of poor sleep sets your brain up to make unhealthy decisions the following day. When your body is tired, the reward center in your brain goes into overdrive, looking for something to provide a feeling of euphoria. This can lead to cravings for high-carbohydrate snacks, bigger portions, and overall increased food intake. If you want to better manage your weight, it might be time to prioritize quality sleep.

Stick to a schedule.?Aim for a regular bed time and rising time so the body knows when to expect sleep.?Avoid naps after 3 p.m. to prevent restlessness at bed time.

Unplug.?Avoid bright lights, phones, computers, and TV for at least an hour before bed.

Limit alcohol.?You may fall asleep faster, but alcohol reduces the amount of deep sleep causing you to sleep lighter and wake more frequently throughout the night.

Avoid food right before bed.?Eating late causes your body to digest food while you’re sleeping which can prevent you from getting into deep cycles of sleep.

Get help.??If your sleep doesn’t improve and is impacting your health, talk with you doctor about options to help you get back on track.