Sleep deprivation disrupts three key hormones: ghrelin (hunger) increases by 28%, leptin (satiety) decreases by 18%, and cortisol (stress) elevates. Research by Spiegel and Van Cauter found even a single night of poor sleep produces measurable effects. You’re hungrier, less satisfied by eating, and more likely to store fat—especially around your midsection. Chronic sleep deprivation compounds the damage.
This companion covers ghrelin, leptin, cortisol, and the combined effect on weight. (4 min read)