In two recent studies, an association with being overweight and a lack of rest have been noted. The clinical trials were conducted at Stanford University in California and the University of Chicago in Illinois. The featured hormones of the study were leptin and ghrelin.

In 12 healthy men, Chicago researcher measured and monitored the levels of leptin and ghrelin. Appetites were measured for hunger and satisfaction levels. The clinical participants were subjected and endured two days of sleep deprivation preceded by two days of extended rest and sleep. During the sleep changes, physicians would maintain reports on any modification in appetite, hormone levels, and activity.

A few of the tests demonstrated that when sleep was restricted, leptin levels were lowered while the ghrelin levels were elevated. As to be expected, the subject’s appetites also improved proportionately to the hormonal changes. Food craving for high carbohydrates and foods dense in caloric volume surged by an enormous 45 percent.

Alternatively, the Stanford clinical trial rendered provocative results. The study was conducted in conjunction with the University of Wisconsin. Approximately, 1000 participants were asked to document their hours of daily rest each night. Subsequently, researchers as well as physicians measured the levels of ghrelin and leptin. The body weight of the subject studies was logged, as well.

The findings of the combined studies found that people who slept under eight hours per night, not only raised the levels of ghrelin while reducing the level of leptin but the percentage of body fat was elevated, also. Even more astounding in the study, the level of body fat appeared to correlate with the participants sleeping patterns. Particularly, the men who had slept the least amount of hours per night carried more pounds in weight.