Weight loss stalls? Experts say poor sleep might be the culprit

Many people struggle with weight loss despite diligent dieting and exercise, often overlooking a crucial factor: sleep. Nutritionist Liao Hsin-yi points out that insufficient sleep can significantly complicate weight management, leading to increased cravings for unhealthy foods and reduced motivation for physical activity.

Liao explains that when sleep-deprived, the body undergoes several changes. It becomes more prone to hunger, develops a stronger desire for high-sugar and high-fat foods, and tends to decrease physical activity due to fatigue. Over the long term, these factors contribute to a higher risk of weight gain, making even the most disciplined dietary efforts less effective.

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If you only sleep 5 or 6 hours a day, no matter how diligently you control your diet, it may make weight loss more difficult.

To combat this, Liao suggests simple yet effective strategies for improving sleep hygiene. These include maintaining a consistent sleep and wake-up schedule, reducing screen time at least an hour before bed, limiting caffeine intake in the afternoon, and ensuring the bedroom is cool and comfortable. Prioritizing sleep, she emphasizes, is a vital component of health management that can lead to better energy levels, reduced snacking, and increased capacity for exercise, ultimately supporting weight loss goals.

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Sleep is also an important part of health management. When you sleep better, you usually have more energy the next day and are less likely to constantly crave snacks, and have more energy to exercise and maintain a regular life.