The Importance of Sleep for College Students
Posted byYou may have hours of homework and a job to attend to on top of your college classes, but it is imperative that you do not let sleep fall by the wayside. Skimping on shut-eye can be extremely detrimental to your health, while getting the right amount of sleep for your body can do wonders for your overall health and well-being.
Staying up all night to cram for an exam? Lack of sleep can actually decrease your memory retention and make it more difficult to dig information from your brain when exam time rolls around. Studies have shown that people who sleep after learning new information did better on tests later. So skip the cramming and opt for sleep instead.
Trying to lose a few pounds? A lack of sleep can actually affect the way your body metabolizes and stores carbohydrates, which can lead to weight gain. Sleep loss can also alter the hormones that control your appetite, making you crave sugary, high-carbohydrate foods. If you want to stay healthy and keep your weight under control, you may want to reconsider your sleep habits.
By far, the most noticeable effect of sleep loss is on your mood. Lack of sleep can cause irritability, moodiness, and affect your ability to concentrate. It’s hard enough to sit still for hours in a quiet library studying, but try studying while sleep-deprived. It’s nearly impossible!
Don’t let sleep deprivation get the best of you. Take control of your sleeping habits and you’ll see a huge difference in your body and your overall health.