Many people spend tons of money on supplements, protein this, mass gainer that, energy booster, whatever. But what if I told you there was a super beneficial supplement that you probably weren’t getting enough of, and now what if I told you it was free?! No, this isn’t a bad infomercial. Seriously, there is a free supplement you are probably not getting enough of. You can probably guess what it is. That’s right, it’s sleep. Sleep and fitness are deeply linked, but it’s so easily forgotten.
Working out, and good eating habits will only do so much if you don’t get enough sleep. Without the proper amount of sleep, you will be stalled in your health and fitness journey. Why is that? I am glad you asked.
Sleep and fitness
So what exactly is the link between sleep and fitness?
Our bodies naturally produce human growth hormone, also called HGH. It does exactly what it sounds like – it helps humans grow. It is responsible for regulating body composition, muscle and bone growth, sugar and fat metabolism, and more. Basically HGH really helps us with our fitness.
Sleep is one of the key ways to boost HGH. As we sleep, the HGH works it way through our bodies, helping to repair and restore the damage we did during the day. This is key for workout recovery.
The higher quality rest we get, the more HGH we get. In turn, the more energy we have, the better we feel and perform, and the healthier we become.
Of course, we all know we need 7-8 hours of sleep a night as adults. If you are getting that, great. If not, here are some signs you are in a sleep deficit.
Signs of sleep deficit
- Poor digestion, or gut health/increased inflammation.
- Hormonal imbalances, especially the hunger hormone and increased food cravings.
- Insulin resistance – your body will not tolerate carbs well.
- The “caffeine cycle” – using caffeine to feel awake during the day but then unable to fall asleep at night.
How to boost our sleep and fitness
So, now we know what to look for with lack of sleep. How do we make sure we get as much quality sleep as possible to cash in on this free supplement?
- Stay off electronics at least 1 hour before bed.
- Don’t consume caffeine or other stimulants after 2 pm.
- Watch alcohol intake. It might help you pass out but it doesn’t allow you to actually rest.
- Be consistent with the times you go to bed and wake up. This consistency will help your body and mind be ready for sleep and ready to wake up.
- Keep your room dark, quiet, and at a comfortable temperature.
- Try to get 7-8 hours of sleep a night.
Struggling to figure out nutrition, sleep, eating habits, and more? We offer coaching in all of the above and more. Set up your free No Sweat Intro today to learn more.
