Did you know that you might be able to sleep into slimness? A study from the Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX demonstrated that our circadian rhythms influence weight gain. It seems that fat cells, adipocytes, are influenced by our wake/sleep cycle and if we get proper amounts of sleep those fat cell do not accumulate as much fat in them. (Obesity Review, 2007 Mar;8(2):169-181)

In another study, reported in American Journal of Epidemiology, November 15, 2006, 60,000 women were followed for 16 years with the results showing those who got the recommended 7 or more hours sleep each night were 33% less likely to gain 30 pounds or more than those that got 5 hours of sleep. American Dietetic Association spokeswoman Suzanne Farrell, MS, RD, in an interview on November 13, 2006 stated that eating fast food especially late at night contributed to the epidemic of obesity seen in America today.

Obviously all of these factors are related. Therefore to aid in weight loss or to prevent weight gain, get your sleep; at least 7 hours each night and reduce or eliminate eating late in the evening. Then “Watch God work!” Circle those items that you practice this week.

(Sabbath is a day of rest and is not included in the table.)