Failing and failing to sleep - 3 Fat Chicks on a Diet Weight Loss Community

Altari · 04-13-2008, 12:57 AM

So I've discovered that when I don't sleep well/enough, I eat like a maniac the next day. My hypothesis is that my body wants to quick upper to get through the day. This is going on my "to-do" list. Maybe Ill start being an early to bed early to riser...although I'm not sure my husband could survive that...

Anybody else?

Hannah25 · 04-13-2008, 02:42 AM

There was a Jillian Michaels podcast that discussed this (more than once, actually). I don't remember exactly what it was but she was explaining that not sleeping enough creates some sort of hormone issue, I'm thinking it was leptin or cortisol or something like that. That jumbled explanation I'm sure was meaningless, but my point was, you're right. There IS a correlation between eating a ton and not sleeping well, at least according to her. Hope you can find a way to get in a bit more sleep and hopefully there will be a positive impact on your ability to stay on plan.

Apple Cheeks · 04-13-2008, 05:09 AM

I do okay when I'm just tired from lack of sleep, but if you add feeling angry or frustrated on top of it, then I seem to lose all will power and dive into comfort foods. For me, that's sugary sodas, rice crispy bars, donuts, hi-fat iced-coffee blends, fast food, and whatever else appeals to me at that moment.

I suppose it happens because I want those quick sugar rushes for some energy, and the comfort of fatty foods when I'm feeling extra stressed and tired. I recognize this, but it still doesn't help me avoid a binge when it happens!

jitterfish · 04-13-2008, 05:14 AM

Yep it is all tied in, I suggest getting some 5-HTP from a natural food store or chemist. It will not only help with sleep but help control food cravings if you don't sleep well (it helps in the production of melatonin/seratonin).

JayEll · 04-13-2008, 06:28 AM

Sleep is really important! Lack of sleep = more stress = more cortisol = wanting to eat the house!

I have to avoid caffeine after about 5 p.m. or I have trouble sleeping. The same with any sugary food. Oh, and also, chocolate can give me problems.

There is a very nice Chamomile & herb blend tea called "Surrender to Sleep" that's made by Republic of Tea. This brand seems expensive but it's not when you realize how many bags are in one container. Anyway, it is almost sure-fire sleep if drunk before retiring for the night.

Jay