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Sleep and appetite: the underrated connection
Why short nights fuel cravings, and what good sleep has to do with nutrition.
More than just tiredness
After a short night, many people don't just feel tired, they feel hungrier too. The craving for sweet and fatty foods is often stronger.
Why that happens
Lack of sleep affects the hormones that regulate hunger and fullness. On top of that, when you're tired you look for quick energy and have less patience for good decisions.
What can help
- Regular times: going to bed and getting up at similar times whenever possible
- No heavy food late: a big meal shortly before bed often disturbs sleep
- Keep an eye on caffeine: have your last coffee in the early afternoon
- Cut back on screens: the last half hour without your phone
Nutrition sometimes starts in the bedroom
If you want to change your eating habits, you should look at your sleep too. Sometimes an earlier bedtime is more effective than any meal plan.
My tip
For one week, go to bed 20 minutes earlier every evening and notice how your appetite changes the next day.
