"Get enough sleep, or you won't be able to lose weight." The first time I heard this, it sounded ridiculous. Don’t you burn more calories when you’re awake than when you’re asleep? [Not necessarily] Wouldn’t you lose more weight by sleeping LESS? [No]

Those ideas seemed sensible to me at the time, but they were wrong. All the latest findings show that getting a full night's sleep is absolutely essential to losing weight.

The stress resulting from sleep deprivation leads to imbalances in levels of several chemicals in the brain that regulate appetite and fat storage. So for best results, don't skimp — get at least seven or eight hours of peaceful rest every single day. Think of this as vitamin Z.

People sometimes have trouble falling asleep. See your doctor if this is is a chronic condition. But if it is just now and then, there are things you can do to help get to the land of dreams.

• Try to go to bed at the same time every night. Your body loves regularity, and then it becomes a habit. Head in bed at certain time = sleep.
• Do relaxing things in a regular routine for at least a half-hour before bedtime. Don't stress out. Put the problems of the day on ice. Seriously. Get a good night’s sleep tonight, and you will be better able to tackle your problems tomorrow.
• Try a few minutes of meditation to relax yourself. Think of something pleasant and relaxing. Use your imagination. Maybe you are sitting under a tree in a beautiful park, listening to your favorite relaxing music. You can do this in bed, and it will help you doze off.
• Have a warm, non-caffeinated drink, like Postum, Cafix, Pero, or herb tea. A cup of hot broth also works well.

Losing weight takes planning. That includes getting the rest you need. Have a very good night!