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)
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