How does sleep impact body composition?

Lack of sleep can significantly impact body composition by contributing to weight gain. When a person does not get enough sleep, several physiological changes occur that can lead to increased hunger and alterations in metabolism. Sleep deprivation is associated with hormonal imbalances, specifically an increase in ghrelin (the hormone that stimulates appetite) and a decrease in leptin (the hormone that signals satiety). This combination can lead individuals to consume more calories than they typically would.

Furthermore, inadequate sleep can affect the body's ability to regulate insulin, making it less effective at processing carbohydrates. This situation can promote fat storage and increase body weight over time. Additionally, poor sleep quality is linked to decreased physical activity levels and energy expenditure, further contributing to weight gain.

In contrast, the other options either understate the effects of sleep or present inaccurate assumptions about its role in body composition. Sleep has a critical role in overall health, including weight management. Therefore, maintaining adequate and quality sleep is essential for achieving and maintaining a healthy body composition.