Relationship of Sleep And Hunger

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Research shows that when someone does not get enough good restful sleep, it can impact their appetite.

Why is sleep important?

You spend 1/3 of your life sleeping, and that is not wasted time. Good sleep habits help your body:

Process and save memories
Repair muscles
Boost your immune system
Support hunger and fullness cues to your body
Recharge

How do sleep and hunger impact each other?

There are 2 main hormones that affect hunger and satiety (feeling full):

Ghrelin - "The Accelerator"
Ghrelin is a hormone that is released by your stomach. It tells your brain it needs energy. When you do not get enough sleep, your levels of ghrelin will rise which causes you to feel hungry even if your body does not need more food.

Leptin - "The Brake"
Leptin is a hormone that is released by cells in your body called adipose cells. These signal to your brain that your body has had enough energy from food. When your body feels full or satisfied, you will have a high leptin level. When your leptin levels are high, your ghrelin levels are low, so you feel satisfied or full.

Sleep

Not Enough

Ghrelin

High ↑

Leptin

Low ↓

How You Feel

Hungry

The Right Amount

Low ↓

High ↑

Full

If you are concerned about your sleep, reach out to your healthcare provider.

Learn More

Free Interpreter Services

In the hospital, ask your nurse.
From outside the hospital, call the toll-free Family Interpreting Line, 1-866-583-1527. Tell the interpreter the name or extension you need.

Seattle Children’s offers free interpreter services for patients, family members and legal representatives who are deaf or hard of hearing or speak a language other than English. Seattle Children’s will make this information available in alternate formats upon request. Call the Family Resource Center at 206-987-2201. This handout has been reviewed by clinical staff at Seattle Children’s. However, your needs are unique. Before you act or rely upon this information, please talk with your healthcare provider.

11/01/2025

PE2171

Relationship of Sleep And Hunger

Why is sleep important?

How do sleep and hunger impact each other?

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