Researching sleep deprivation can upset the hormone balance

Lack of sleep can bring hormone balance out of balance
While some people boast of having only a few hours sleep, it is actually known that not enough is unhealthy. Chronic sleep deprivation, among other things, promotes the development of a metabolic syndrome.

Important for the health
There are plenty of good reasons for more sleep. In addition, enough sleep should promote good looks. That there is a kind of "beauty sleep" that has a positive effect on the attractiveness has also been shown in a Swedish study. Above all, sleep is important for your health.

Those who sleep too little live unhealthily. Chronic sleep deprivation or a permanent disturbance of the day-night rhythm can disturb the hormone balance. (Image: from Lieres / fotolia.com)

Dick due to lack of sleep
Only a few days ago, British scientists reported that lack of sleep can promote obesity. It is well known that hormones play an important role in why sleep deprivation makes us hungry.

The German Society of Endocrinology (DGE) explains in a recent report, "why too little or disturbed sleep can make you fat and sick". According to the experts, chronic sleep deprivation or permanent disturbance of the day-night rhythm can upset the hormone balance.

The appetite increases
This can lead to a so-called insulin resistance. Professor med. Sebastian M. Schmid from the Medical University Hospital I in Lübeck explained: "The patients have elevated blood sugar levels, although they produce more insulin." In addition, shifts the balance of hunger-regulating hormones, there is an increased appetite.

One possible consequence is the so-called metabolic syndrome, which doctors recognize due to excessive obesity, increased blood pressure, as well as increased blood sugar and lipid levels.

Chronic sleep deprivation can be fatal
According to DGE, about every fifth adult in Germany has this combination, which increases the risk of heart attack and stroke. Significant causes of metabolic syndrome include physical inactivity and overeating.

Professor Schmid said the evidence that even sleep deprivation can disrupt hormonal balance is clear: "Every hour less sleep per day in epidemiological studies is associated with an increase in obesity, type 2 diabetes, elevated cholesterol and high blood pressure. "

Also, the connection between a shortened nocturnal sleep duration and an increased risk of death is considered proven. "Chronic sleep deprivation can lead to an earlier death," says Professor Schmid. (Ad)