Hidden saboteurs

Address these roadblocks to support diet changes

SKIMPING ON SLEEP

A University of Chicago study has shown after only 6.5 hours of sleep over a few nights, people develop signs of impaired glucose tolerance – a major cause of obesity and type 2 diabetes. And two nights of four hours’ sleep results in a 20 per cent drop in the hormone leptin, which tells your brain “I’m full”.

STRESS

This can raise BGLs as your body rapidly releases blood glucose and fats into the bloodstream for the ‘fight or flight’ response.

ALCOHOL

A standard 100ml glass of wine contains about 280kJ and one 285ml regular beer contains about 430kJ, so a couple of glasses can add to your daily intake.

SKIPPING BREAKFAST

People who have irregular meals may be at higher risk of stroke, obesity, high blood pressure, heart disease and blood glucose problems, shows Columbia University research.

EATING LATE

Having late meals can lead to higher cholesterol and insulin, shows University of Pennsylvania research.

SITTING

Avoid the couch. Prolonged sitting stops your body producing an enzyme called lipase, which is critical for burning fat.