Seeing extra pounds on the scale not only leads to frustration but can also cause many health problems. According to research, being overweight increases the risk of dying prematurely.
However, the answer to sudden weight gain can be found in your nightly routine. If you know the reasons behind the pounds you are gaining, you can take precautions and choose a healthier lifestyle.
We have compiled the most common bedtime mistakes that eventually lead to weight gain. Forewarned is forearmed, they say. Let’s look at the list together and try not to do it again!
If I Eat Right Before Bed, Will I Gain Weight?
1. Late Night Snacks
We all know the rule of not eating after 6 p.m., but that does not prevent us from having a late dinner or midnight snacks. However, studies remind us that eating late leads to weight gain.
Furthermore, it can increase cholesterol, insulin levels and negatively affect our hormonal markers. Remember that if your calorie intake is much higher than what you are burning, it will lead to weight gain.
2. Drink Coffee Late At Night
Drinking coffee late at night not only hurts your sleep but the latest you should consume caffeine is 6 hours before bed. Scientists also link consumption of chlorogenic acid, found in coffee, with weight gain. Try replacing coffee with herbal tea or, better yet, warm water.
3. Not Getting Enough Sleep
A healthy amount of sleep is 7 to 8 hours a night, but if it’s less than that daily, that’s when many health problems start. Studies have shown that there is a link between sleep deprivation and negative changes in metabolism.
Another deciding factor may be that not getting enough sleep causes fatigue and therefore less physical activity.
4. Lack Of Exercise
Exercise and physical activity play a crucial role in weight loss, as they increase your metabolism and burn calories. It is essential to practice even the most moderate exercise every day, so if you walk about 15 minutes every day, you will burn up to 100 additional calories.
This adds about 700 calories a week and 10 lbs. of weight loss in one year.
5. Use Of Electronic Devices At Night
Studies confirm that the use of electronic devices that emit blue light before sleep is linked to a lack of sleep and eventual weight gain. These devices interfere with the body’s production of melatonin, which is a hormone responsible for regulating sleep cycles.
Rather than surfing social media before bed, choose to read an interesting print book or listen to relaxing music.
6. Setting The Alarm Too Late
Believe it or not, the researchers say that people who are exposed to bright light early in the morning have a lower body mass index than those who are exposed to light later.
Up to 20 to 30 minutes of natural outdoor light has been shown to affect your body mass index. So wake up early and go for a morning run!
Which of these mistakes did you know before bedtime and which ones were new to you? Will you change any of your night habits after reading this article? Share your thoughts and ideas in the comments below.
