Sleep Curtailment Decreases Leptin and Increases Ghrelin in Young Men
Does Sleep Restriction Change Your Hunger Hormones?
Yes, and the changes promote weight gain. This controlled study found that sleep curtailment in healthy young men significantly decreased leptin (the satiety hormone that signals fullness) while increasing ghrelin (the hunger hormone that stimulates appetite). These hormonal changes create a perfect storm for overeating and weight gain, explaining why sleep-deprived people often struggle with increased appetite and food cravings, particularly for high-calorie foods.