The missing element to slimming down, speeding up metabolism and burning fat.
When it comes to weight loss, it’s not just about diet and exercise – there’s a big piece of the puzzle that most people overlook. It’s something so essential that you’re 74% more likely to be obese without it.
And what it is? Good quality sleep!
Currently, at least 40 million Americans suffer from sleep disorders, according to the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, and my hunch is, the non-stop world we live in has something to do with it! “Nobody really closes the office anymore,” says Lisa Shives, MD, at the American Academy of Sleep Medicine. And, many of us are on Facebook or Twitter well into the night.
But, how exactly does this lack of sleep cause weight gain? Sleeping less than at least 7 or 8 hours a night inhibits the body’s ability to metabolize carbohydrates, leading to higher insulin levels and eventually, Type 2 diabetes. And it also contributes to the nationwide obesity epidemic – people who slept only 5 hours a night have been found 74% more likely to become obese than those who slept for 7 to 9 hours nightly, according to data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Study.
While it’s always a good idea to consult your health care practitioner about the possibly of a medical condition affecting your sleep, there are some simple ways to help you sleep sounder without tossing and turning!
Watch this video for my 3 Secrets to Slimmer Sleep:
1. Eat Before You Sleep
Tracking eating and sleeping habits of over 450 women in one long-term government study, researchers found the more unhealthy fats they ate, the less they slept. Alcohol and caffeine were also culprits. Avoid these sleep detractors, but do try eating a little protein in the evening to level your blood sugar before you start stacking ZZZs. Whip up a little whey protein drink as a night cap to help you snooze more soundly and support lean muscle mass in the process.
2. De-Stress with Magnesium
The mineral magnesium, found in leafy greens and nuts like almonds, can help you sleep through the night. If you’re low in this mineral due to stress—as most people are—try taking 400 mg of Magnesium, the calming anti-stress supplement that can contribute to a full night’s sleep without intermittent wake-ups.
3. Ground Yourself with Earthing Technology
Several studies have confirmed that when Earthing technology is used during sleep, “it normalizes the daily cortisol [stress hormone] rhythm, improves sleep, and reduces pain and inflammation,” writes James L. Oschman, PhD, in the Journal of Bodywork Movement and Therapy. I find this cortisol discovery especially promising: high levels of cortisol prevent a good night’s sleep, while impacting metabolic rate, so that you burn less fat, have cravings, and gain weight!
The Earthing Half Sheet (placed at the foot end of any bed, over the bottom fitted sheet, and tucked around and under the mattress) grounds your body to the Earth for sound sleep. You can also sleep grounded with a Universal Mat or by wearing a special Earthing Wrist/Ankle Band – which may be the most versatile and cost-effective option. Learn more at https://www.unikeyhealth.com/earthing.
I can personally recommend Earthing because I’ve seen the difference it’s made in my life, but here’s what other people are saying after using Earthing sleep systems:
“After using the Earthing Universal Mat for one day, that evening I experienced the best sleep I’ve had in awhile. Previously, I woke up with pain in the deltoids muscle—but not after using the pad…for just one day! After several days of usage, the best word I can use to describe the feeling throughout my body is “fluidity” of movement. I have arthritis in my spine, hands, neck and also fibromyalgia.” – Diana L.
“I’ve been sleeping on the Earthing Half Sheet for many months and I sleep so much deeper, dream vividly, and wake up totally refreshed. I don’t wake up during the night any more either. I love the Earthing Wrist Bands, too, because they are so versatile. I use the wrist band while I am watching TV to help me relax. I also use it while I am at the computer and I don’t feel tired by the end of the day.” – Liz B.
Here’s to a good night’s sleep – See you in dreamland!
