As lead author of the study Esra Tasali, M.D., explained in a news release, previous research has already shown that not getting enough sleep can lead to overeating and, subsequently, weight gain. So the question here, he says, was, “If this is what happens with sleep loss, can we extend sleep and reverse some of these adverse outcomes?” It’s important to note that aside from the sleep hygiene counseling, the participants were instructed to go about their business as usual (i.e., no suggested dietary changes). This is notable, given the only intervention was the sleep hygiene counseling. As Tasali notes, “This was not a weight-loss study but even within just two weeks, we have quantified evidence showing a decrease in caloric intake and a negative energy balance (caloric intake is less than calories burned).” He adds that if these changes were to be maintained, people would likely notice “clinically important weight loss” over time.
