|
In two recent studies, an association with
being overweight and a lack of rest have been noted. The clinical
trials were conducted at Stanford University in California and
the University of Chicago in Illinois. The featured hormones
of the study were leptin and ghrelin.
In 12 healthy men, Chicago
researcher measured and monitored the levels of leptin and ghrelin.
Appetites were measured for hunger and satisfaction levels.
The clinical participants were subjected and endured two days
of sleep deprivation preceded by two days of extended rest and
sleep. During the sleep changes, physicians would maintain reports
on any modification in appetite, hormone levels, and activity.
A few of the tests demonstrated that when sleep
was restricted, leptin levels were lowered while the ghrelin
levels were elevated. As to be expected, the subject’s appetites
also improved proportionately to the hormonal changes. Food
craving for high carbohydrates and foods dense in caloric volume
surged by an enormous 45 percent.
Alternatively, the Stanford clinical trial
rendered provocative results. The study was conducted in conjunction
with the University of Wisconsin. Approximately, 1000 participants
were asked to document their hours of daily rest each night.
Subsequently, researchers as well as physicians measured the
levels of ghrelin and leptin. The body weight of the subject
studies was logged, as well.
The findings of the combined studies found
that people who slept under eight hours per night, not only
raised the levels of ghrelin while reducing the level of leptin
but the percentage of body fat was elevated, also. Even more
astounding in the study, the level of body fat appeared to correlate
with the participants sleeping patterns. Particularly, the men
who had slept the least amount of hours per night carried more
pounds in weight. |
