The Vice-O-Meter: Dr. Oz Helps You Kick Your Worst Habits
Just how bad is it to eat a whole bag of chips in one sitting? Or sip more than one glass of wine a day? Here, a ranking of the things we do when we think no one's looking and how to stop.
By Dr. Mehmet Oz
Photo: Thinkstock
10 of 12
Not Getting Enough Sleep
Vice-O-Meter: 9
The Harm:
Numerous studies show that sleep deprivation causes elevated levels of ghrelin, the hunger hormone, which can lead you to overeat. But it's not just your waistline you need to worry about. A study published this spring found that regularly getting less than six hours of sleep can double a person's risk for heart attack and stroke.
The Cure:
Establish a relaxing pre-bedtime routine that doesn't involve a computer or TV. The blue-hued light from their screens has been shown to throw off the body's natural circadian rhythm, keeping you alert into the night.
From the
August 2012 issue of
O, The Oprah MagazineAs a reminder, always consult your doctor for medical advice and treatment before starting any program.
