Today marks World Sleep Day, and while the benefits of a good night’s sleep are well documented, a new study has found that even an extra 20 minutes of slumber could help you beat unhealthy cravings.
Researchers in the UK analysed the sleeping and eating cycle of two groups of study participants: those who slept from five to seven hours a night (less than the recommended amount), and a group who underwent a program to increase their sleep time by an average of 21 minutes.
The findings showed that that 86 per cent of the group who undertook the healthy pre-bed routine and increased their sleep time, also cut their sugar intake by almost 10g – the equivalent of half a chocolate bar or half a slice of cake. Their carbohydrate intake was also reduced.
King’s College London head of nutritional sciences Dr Wendy Hall said of the findings: “The fact that extending sleep led to a reduction in intake of free sugars, by which we mean the sugars that are added to foods by manufacturers or in cooking at home as well as sugars in honey, syrups and fruit juice, suggests that a simple change in lifestyle may really help people to consume healthier diets."
If you’re reading this thinking it might be time to start getting some extra shut-eye, here are some products to help you do so:
Eco Tools Bamboo Sleep Mask
Eco Tools Bamboo Sleep Mask is made with soft bamboo material to ensure a restful sleep. Made with natural materials, this product has a low impact on the earth’s resources.
Oil Garden Sound Sleep Pack
Oil Garden Sound Sleep Pack is a essential oil pack that helps to relax and calm the senses to prepare for a good night’s sleep. It contains Sound Sleep Massage Oil (100mL), Lavender Pure Essential Oil (12mL), and Lavender Spray (100g).
In Essence Sleep Easy Roll-on
In Essence Sleep Easy Roll-on has a sweet, delicate floral aroma. The therapeutic blend contains valerian and pure essential oils of lavender, mandarin and roman chamomile to help relieve nervous tension, stress and irritability, while improving the quality of sleep. To use, apply to temples, forehead and back of neck, avoiding the eye area.
BioSource Sleep
BioSource Sleep are tablets that help to relieve sleeplessness, nervous tension, stress and mild anxiety.
Natio 100% Pure Natural Essential Oil Blend - Sleep
Natio 100% Pure Natural Essential Oil Blend - Sleep is an essential oil blend of lavender, bergamot and chamomile. The relaxing blend is often used to help relieve symptoms of sleeplessness and stress.
The Body Shop Wellbeing Deep Sleep Dreamy Pillow and Body Mist
The Body Shop Wellbeing Deep Sleep Dreamy Pillow and Body Mist is a quick-drying mist that assists with sleeping problems. It contains a special encapsulation technology that allows bursts of active fragrance to be released at night to aid a better nights rest.
