You burn more calories sleeping than watching tv

You Burn More Calories Sleeping than Watching TV

When it comes to burning calories, we often think about engaging in physical activities such as jogging, cycling, or weightlifting. However, did you know that you burn more calories while sleeping than watching TV? Yes, it might sound surprising, but research and scientific findings support this fact.

The Science Behind It

According to a study conducted by the University of Colorado in 2013, sleeping actually burns a surprising number of calories. The study found that on average, a person burns around 63 calories per hour during sleep. On the other hand, only around 42 calories per hour are burned while watching TV.

While these numbers might not seem significant, they add up over time. An average person spends around 8 hours sleeping per night, resulting in approximately 504 calories burned. In contrast, the average time spent watching TV is approximately 5 hours per day, resulting in only 210 calories burned. Therefore, even though the time spent watching TV might seem longer, you actually burn more calories during your sleep.

Metabolism and Calorie Burning During Sleep

Sleeping affects our metabolism in various ways, leading to the burning of calories during this seemingly inactive period. Firstly, our basal metabolic rate (BMR) decreases while we sleep, which is the number of calories our body needs to function at rest. This decrease in BMR results in energy expenditure and, consequently, calorie burning.

Moreover, our body goes through various physiological processes during sleep. It repairs and regenerates tissues, releases hormones, and replenishes energy stores. All of these processes require energy and contribute to calorie burning.

The Impact of Watching TV

On the other hand, watching TV does not require much physical exertion. It is a sedentary activity that often involves sitting or lying down for extended periods. As a result, the calorie burning is significantly lower compared to the varied physiological processes during sleep.

Additionally, watching TV is often accompanied by snacking or consuming high-calorie beverages, leading to a higher intake of calories. This combination of inactivity and calorie consumption can contribute to weight gain and a higher risk of obesity.

Conclusion

While watching TV might be a popular pastime, it is essential to remember the impact it has on our calorie burning. Sleep, on the other hand, is a natural process that plays a crucial role in our overall well-being and metabolism. By understanding the difference between calorie burning during sleep and watching TV, we can make informed choices to prioritize our health and fitness goals.

References:

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