How much does sleep impact weight loss?

[MrsGethinJones]

Ive got another thread on the go about whether its realistic for me to aim to get to 55kg however I have a different question too please.

Does lack of sleep really impact weight loss and how many hours of sleep should I aim for each night?

im a chronic insomniac and total faffer - I dont sleep before 1pm and I wake at 6, and often have broken sleep. My weight loss has stalled over the lasy week or so although everything else remains equal - i was wondering if this could be due to lack of sleep?

Sort of. It may have a tiny effect in and of itself, but the major problem is that tired people tend to reach for sugary/carby foods for energy without realising, and don't tend to move around as much so burn fewer calories

I did a healthy weight loss program at my gym here in the USA with doctors, nutritionists and personal trainers and they did a lot of education with us. Apparently studies show that when we are tired with usually eat 300 extra calories during the day, and yes they are more like to be empty comfort carbs.and sugars.

If you have insomnia that is tricky and I am no expert on that. All that comes to mind is staying completely off bright blue lights screens (phones, iPad, laptops, desl tops after 7pm or so, or better use as little during the day as possible). Cut out coffee, tea or any stimulants as much as possible. Do vigorous exercise during the day and maybe go for a walk in the evening. If you read or do anything that stimulates you when you can't sleep, leave your bedroom, your bedroom should be for sleep (& sex!) only.
Try and have a routine where you go to bed at the same time every night and get up at the same time 7 days a week. 6 hrs sleep minimum, best sleep is around 8 hrs (10 if you are a teen or toddler!).

Study on eating 300+ calories when tired

www.yahoo.com/lifestyle/skip-sleep-eat-300-more-184137449.html

Lack of sleep increases cortisol levels which makes it harder to lose weight (especially belly fat).