Do you burn more calories the more exhausted you are?

Calorie Expenditure and Exhaustion: How Sleep Deprivation Affects Metabolism

Sleep is crucial for overall health and well-being, and recent research suggests that it also plays a significant role in calorie expenditure. Studies have shown that extended periods of wakefulness, triggered by short sleep duration, can prompt the body to conserve energy, leading to reduced calorie expenditure the following day.

Short Sleep and Energy Conservation

Researchers at the University of Pennsylvania conducted a study to examine the relationship between sleep deprivation and calorie expenditure. They divided participants into two groups: one group got a full night’s rest (8 hours of sleep per night), while the other group was sleep-restricted to 4 hours per night for five consecutive nights.

The results revealed that the sleep-restricted group had lower calorie expenditure compared to the well-rested group in the 24 hours following sleep restriction. This reduction in calorie burn was most pronounced during the morning hours.

Hormonal Changes and Metabolism

The researchers believe that the reduced calorie expenditure observed in the sleep-restricted group may be related to hormonal changes induced by sleep deprivation. When we are sleep-deprived, our bodies release more of the hormone cortisol, which is known to promote energy conservation. Additionally, sleep deprivation can disrupt the balance of other hormones involved in metabolism, such as leptin and ghrelin.

Implications for Weight Management

The findings of this study have implications for individuals seeking to maintain a healthy weight. Skipping or significantly reducing sleep can lead to a decrease in calorie burn, making it more difficult to lose or maintain weight. Conversely, ensuring adequate sleep may help support weight management efforts by promoting a higher metabolic rate.

Conclusion

The research on the relationship between sleep deprivation and calorie expenditure underscores the importance of getting sufficient sleep for both overall health and weight management. Extended wakefulness can trigger the body to conserve energy, leading to reduced calorie burn. By prioritizing sleep, we can support our metabolism and make it easier to achieve and maintain a healthy weight.