Wonder what happened while you weren’t sleeping? Snacktime!
In this study, 11 healthy men and women spent two weeks fully rested (snoozing 8.5 hours per night), and two weeks sleep deprived (sleeping 5.5 hours per night).
The researchers found that sleep-deprived subjects ate normal meals, but took in significantly more calories from snacks throughout the day. They also craved carbs, and ate fewer proteins and fats (which help you feel full).
Why? Sleep loss may boost your body’s starvation response, leading you to look for calories wherever you can get them.
Bottom line: If you’re entering a phase of reduced sleep (school, work, baby, travel) keep carb-loaded snacks out of the house—and lock the mini-bar if you’re traveling!
