How does the amount of sleep affect weight?

The connection between sleep duration and weight management is well documented in research studies, which highlight how insufficient sleep can disrupt metabolic processes and lead to weight gain. Those who consistently get less sleep tend to have higher levels of hunger-related hormones such as ghrelin and lower levels of leptin, which can result in increased appetite and cravings for high-calorie foods.

Focusing on the option that indicates people who sleep 5 hours are 60% more likely to be overweight, this aligns with findings that show a significant increase in weight-related risks with such limited sleep duration. Data suggest that when individuals sleep fewer hours, particularly around the 5-hour mark, they are indeed at a higher risk of becoming overweight due to metabolic disruptions and behavioral changes associated with sleep deprivation.

In contrast, the other choices also reflect concerns related to sleep and weight but do not capture the specific studies that indicate a direct correlation at the 5-hour level with such a high percentage. Hence, highlighting the steep increase in risk at this threshold provides a compelling reason for sleep hygiene as an important aspect of weight management and overall health.