After staying up past our bedtime to watch Monday Night Football, we are dragging a bit this morning. Which makes this a good time to talk about sleep and fitness.

A growing number of studies point to a link between sleep and weight. Failure to get eight hours of shut-eye can lead to obesity. One possible reason is that the tired body requires more energy, thereby causing craving for sugary and high-carbohydrate food. Some studies suggest that lack of inadequate sleep may also cause an increase in ghrelin, a hormone that stimulates hunger.

There are also studies that link sleeping problems to inflammation and body aches.

Simply put, getting adequate levels of sleep is necessary for good health. And spending more pillow time may help you lose inches around the waisteline.