There are myriad factors involved in weight gain, many of which extend far beyond diet and exercise.
Sleep specialists warn that insufficient sleep, for example, can significantly undermine a slimmer's attempts to shed excess pounds.
Sleep expert Dr Usman Maqsood warned that sleep deprivation hinders weight regulation systems by increasing appetite and triggering cravings for high-calorie foods.
"When we don't get enough sleep on a regular basis, it can seriously disrupt how our body manages weight," the Midland Health sleep expert cautioned.
Chronic sleep deprivation can increase our appetite
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The consequences extend beyond mere fatigue, affecting fundamental metabolic processes. Research indicates that individuals following weight reduction programmes who experience inadequate rest typically achieve poorer fat loss outcomes compared to well-rested counterparts, for example.
But the relationship between rest and weight management operates bidirectionally.
"Over time, this can result in a higher body weight and make it much harder to lose weight, even if you're trying to eat well," Dr Maqsood explained.
"Not to mention, studies have shown that people on weight loss plans who don't get enough sleep tend to lose less fat than those who do."
It's a two-way street, as enhanced slumber quality can facilitate improved weight control, while reducing excess weight often leads to better rest patterns.
The physiological mechanisms underlying this phenomenon involve several crucial hormones that regulate hunger and satiation.
GP and Weight Loss Specialist at Midland Health, Dr Jacob Stendall, detailed these processes, explaining: "Poor sleep throws key hormones out of balance.
"For example, ghrelin, which makes us feel hungry, goes up, while leptin, which helps us feel full, goes down."
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Experts recommend getting seven to nine hours of sleep each night
| GETTYStress hormone cortisol levels also rise during sleep deprivation, while the body's sugar processing capabilities become impaired.
Additionally, metabolic function shifts unfavourably. Dr Stendall noted: "Even our metabolism shifts as we burn fewer calories from fat and more from carbs, which isn't ideal when trying to manage our weight."
The expert advised "aiming for 7 to 9 hours of sleep each night is a great starting point, but the quality of that sleep matters too".
Practical strategies include developing regular bedtime habits, reducing screen exposure at least sixty minutes before retiring, and optimising the sleeping environment for tranquillity and comfort.
"It's also a good idea to keep a sleep diary or use a smartwatch to track your patterns and spot what may be disrupting your rest, whether that's noise, stress, or even a partner or pet sharing your bed," Dr Stendall recommended.