Yes, inadequate sleep can contribute to weight gain. Lack of sleep affects the hormones that regulate appetite, leading to an increase in hunger and cravings, particularly for high-calorie foods. When we don’t get enough sleep, our body’s hormonal balance is disrupted. The levels of ghrelin, a hormone that stimulates appetite, increase, while the levels of leptin, a hormone that signals fullness, decrease. This hormonal imbalance can lead to overeating and weight gain over time. Prioritizing sufficient sleep duration and quality is important for overall health and weight management.