From Thyroid to Stress: 13 Hidden Reasons Behind Unexplained Weight Gain

Poor sleep alone can disrupt weight regulation. Insufficient rest increases ghrelin—the hormone that stimulates hunger—while decreasing leptin, which signals fullness. This hormonal imbalance can lead to overeating even without realizing it. Research in 2023 found that people sleeping less than six hours per night regained weight more quickly after dieting compared to those who slept longer.