Daijiworld Media Network - Mumbai

Mumbai, Oct 22: Renowned nutritionist Anjali Mukerjee has emphasised the vital role of sleep and the body’s internal clock — the circadian rhythm — in maintaining good health and achieving fitness goals. Taking to Instagram, Mukerjee explained that without proper rest, even a healthy diet and regular exercise may not yield the desired results.

In her post, she stated, “If you are not optimising your sleep and circadian rhythm, all your other efforts like exercise and diet will be less effective.” The message underscores how quality sleep forms the foundation of a healthy lifestyle, working in harmony with nutrition and physical activity.

The nutritionist further explained, “You can eat clean, exercise daily, and still not see results... if your sleep and circadian rhythm are off balance.” She warned that when the body’s sleep pattern and internal clock are misaligned, they can disrupt key biological processes and hinder overall well-being.

According to Mukerjee, the body’s repair, detox, and fat-burning mechanisms are closely linked to one’s internal rhythm. “When you stay up late, eat at odd hours, or scroll past midnight, you’re working against your biology,” she added.

To help restore balance, she suggested simple but effective lifestyle habits:

• Sleep and wake up at the same time daily

• Avoid heavy meals after sunset

• Get early morning sunlight to reset your body clock

• Reduce screen time at least an hour before bedtime

She concluded by stressing that aligning these habits can lead to a natural improvement in metabolism, hormonal balance, and overall health. “When your sleep improves, your metabolism, hormones, and overall health fall into alignment — effortlessly,” she said.

Supporting her views, recent research by the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) revealed that nearly one in three urban Indians suffer from sleep-related issues such as insomnia or poor sleep quality. These disturbances, experts warn, can result in fatigue, weight gain, low concentration levels, and a higher risk of diabetes and heart disease.

To promote better sleep hygiene, health experts have also recommended adopting relaxing bedtime rituals. Dr Saurabh Sethi, a Harvard-trained gastroenterologist, advised that a warm shower before bed can help induce sleep. “A warm shower dilates your blood vessels. When your body cools down afterward, it triggers the release of melatonin, the hormone that helps you sleep,” Dr Sethi explained.

With growing awareness about mental and physical well-being, experts agree that restful sleep is not a luxury — it’s a necessity for a balanced, healthy life.