Whether you had an overly social summer weekend or late afternoon lattes have become your habit, one thing is for certain — getting an adequate amount of sleep is crucial for maintaining a healthy weight. 

Results from a study through the Endocrine Society states, “Losing as little as 30 minutes of sleep per day on weekdays can have long-term consequences for body weight and metabolism.” Skipping sleep may not pack on the pounds right away, however, continually depriving your body of the rest it needs can lead to tighter trousers and a higher number on the scale. After 12 months of gathering research, this study discovered that “for every 30 minutes of weekday sleep debt at baseline, the risk of obesity and insulin resistance was significantly increased by 17% and 39%, respectively.” 

With that in mind, how can you rest assured – literally -- that you’re achieving optimal sleep and preventing the unnecessary widening of your waistline? Aside from hitting the hay at an earlier hour, mobile apps such as Sleep Cycle, tech brands like the Oura Ring and mattress companies like Sleep Number are a beneficial way to track your snoozing schedule. From providing a detailed analysis of your sleep to providing a wake up alarm during your lightest cycle of REM sleep, these devices, gear and apps can help you determine what is keeping you from getting the best shut eye possible. 

Alternate options for improving your sleep include: Reducing your alcohol and/or caffeine consumption before bed, utilizing a sound machine, practicing meditation or journaling, limiting late night snacking and of course, incorporating exercise daily. A study out of Johns Hopkins Center for Sleep states, “People who engage in at least 30 minutes of moderate aerobic exercise may see a difference in sleep quality that same night.” Whether it’s Zumba or Aerobics, Powerlifting or Pilates, find an activity you enjoy and you’ll be more likely to stick with it. Soon enough you’ll awake feeling refreshed and full of energy. Now if only I could convince my toddler to sleep in a little later …