1. Quitter’s Day…
The second Friday of January has officially been called “Quitter’s Day.” Why? Because a majority of people abandon their New Year’s resolutions on this day. It’s about now that most people realize they are not committed to the new goals, have not prepared properly, or set goals that were just too big. So… buckle down… get reinvigorated… and STAY THE COURSE. If you are struggling right now and thinking of quitting… DON’T! Maybe set a slightly smaller version of your goal, make it a little more attainable, or lay out a more doable plan to succeed. YOU CAN DO IT!
2. Something worth working on (and a study that surprised me)…
We all know that eating better and exercising helps with weight loss. But most do not realize how critical sleep is in all matters of weight loss and weight management. A small study in the Annals of Internal Medicine was eye opening. When participants were given a calorie-specific diet that was a bit restricted so that they would lose weight, one group had their sleep restricted to 5.5 hours per night, while the other group got 8.5 hours. The restricted sleep group lost 55% less body fat than the 8.5-hour group. And… the weight lost by the sleep restricted group was 60% more lean muscle and body tissue… not body fat. All other factors were controlled for, so we know sleep is what had this impact. So… if you’re trying to lose weight, focus on what you eat and how much you exercise… BUT… also pay attention to your sleep. Remember, this study showed how powerful sleep restriction can be, and it was only 3 hours less sleep per night. Oh… and sleep restriction also keeps you feeling hungrier. And… weakens your willpower tremendously–ALL things that will negatively affect your goal to lose weight. Your sleep matters A LOT!
3. Quote that seems to be spot on…
“It is dangerous to be right in matters about which the established authorities are wrong.”
-Voltaire
(Does this make anyone think of the COVID pandemic???🤔)