January 1st was a day of new beginnings for many people. As New Year's resolutions started kicking into high gear, people started making their way to gyms across the nation in an effort to lose weight and get healthier.
It can be difficult to find time to make it to the gym, so a lot of people decide that they will get their early, and that is how they will start their day. Often times people will sacrifice sleep in order to get to the gym and work up a sweat. But what if you didn't have to?
It turns out that it might just be better if you decided to get the extra sleep instead of heading to the gym. Scientists from King's College London have figured out that people who get more sleep are far less likely to eat piles of sugary treats or carbohydrates.
A lack of sleep can actually alter the hormones in your body that regulate your appetite, which will make you want those unhealthy treats and snacks. Apparently, people who get more sleep will consume an average of 10 grams of sugar less per day.
The principle investigator from King's College London Department of Nutritional Sciences, Dr. Wendy Hall, explained why this could be happening. "The fact that extending sleep led to a reduction in intake of free sugars "“ by which we mean the sugars that are added to foods by manufacturers or in cooking at home as well as sugars in honey, syrups and fruit juice "“ suggests that a simple change in lifestyle may really help people to consume healthier diets," said Dr. Hall.
Don't get us wrong, we are not suggesting that you simply decide to lay around in bed and you will be able to get healthier. It's going to take a lot of work on your part to keep up with your own self-imposed health regime. You will still need to get active, whether that's at a gym or taking part in recreational sports. You will still need to make smart choices in regards the food you eat. All we are suggesting is maybe, enjoy a little more sleep in the mornings. Your body will thank you later.
Would you rather go to the gym in the morning or the evening?
