The Hot New Diet You've Got to Try

Psst. I've got a fabulous tip for you. It's about a new diet that could change everything. Are you ready? It's called…

The sleep diet.

Yep, that's right, sleep. As in, give your body the sleep it so desperately needs and it will reward you by letting go of excess weight more easily. Now before you dismiss what I'm saying as hogwash and start saying "yeah, yeah, yeah" to yourself, hear me out.
  
Do you really think you are doing "fine" on four or six hours of sleep?  Have you actually convinced yourself that you're the type that doesn't really "need" that much sleep?  Or perhaps you think sleep is for less successful people. If you're buying into any of these myths, you are really hurting yourself, because unless you are getting the recommended seven to nine hours of sleep each and every night—not just on Saturdays--you are probably experiencing some of these symptoms of sleep deprivation:

• Getting sick more often.  Studies indicate that sleep is a key factor in immunity.  Sleep is the only time your body can truly repair itself—if you're not getting enough, you're walking around with lowered defenses and ailing physical systems.
• At a higher risk of developing heart disease and diabetes.  Lack of sleep is associated with higher levels of hormones that may raise blood pressure and effect glucose metabolism.
• Carrying a higher percentage of body fat. Studies indicate that people who get less than seven hours of sleep per night have a higher BMI than their rested friends. Why? Research suggests that too little sleep throws off the hormones that regulate appetite.
• Falling prey to false signals. When we are not rested, our body gets confused and sends out the message that we are hungry (especially for foods high in sugar and fat) when we are actually craving some Zzzs.

If you don't believe me, try getting more sleep for a month.  You'll see what a difference it makes in everything you do! Here are some tips to get you started:

• Gradually move up your bedtime. Try going to bed five minutes earlier every other day. 
• Institute a wind-down ritual. Just before bed, do an activity that makes you drowsy.  For some, the TV puts them to sleep. For others, it's reading.
• Start getting ready for bed earlier. It can take quite a while for your mind and body to unwind from hectic day.  Long before you hit the pillow, take off your make up, brush your teeth, etc. You can't just hit the pillow and expect instant peace.
• Keep the lights dim. Bright light is stimulating. Try brushing your teeth by candlelight, or install a dimmer switch on your bedside table light (you can buy one at the hardware store that installs simply by plugging it in to a socket).

If you're interested in learning more about how changing your sleep habits can improve your health, or need some help brainstorming ways to get more rest, schedule a complementary consultation with us by calling (908) 604-8900 or writing info@kriswade.com.

Yours in good health,
Kris Wade