Sleep Your Way to Better Health
According to the National Sleep Foundation, most adults need about 7 to 9 hours sleep a night, but one third of adults only get 6 hours or less of sleep a night. From babies to adults, studies have shown that the amount of sleep a person gets can directly affect his or her diet and overall health.
Here are five reasons to get enough sleep.
 Lowers the risk of depression.
Getting enough sleep is necessary in order to function both mentally and physically throughout the day. Lack of sleep can cause mood swings, which can increase the risk of depression. Research shows that consistent sleep deprivation—getting less than 6 hours of sleep on a regular basis—can have lasting effects that can't be reversed. These effects can include high blood pressure, negative moods, and a decrease in productivity. Good sleep habits lead to better moods and productivity.
- Helps Maintain Weight.
Getting too little sleep can actually cause weight gain. Studies have shown that sleep deprivation can lower proteins in the body that suppress our appetites, causing people to want to eat more than they would if they had gotten enough sleep. And when we’re tired from lack of sleep, we tend to overeat to replace the energy we've lost. In addition, people who are tired are less likely to exercise which makes it harder for them to maintain a healthy weight.
- Increases Clarity.
Not getting enough sleep not only makes us drowsy and unable to concentrate, it can also lead to impaired memory function and job performance. When we're well rested, we're likely to be more alert, physically stronger, and better able to perform well at our jobs and at creative problem solving. Lack of sleep in children can lead to poor concentration and behavior problems in school. On the other hand, getting enough sleep allows you to think clearly and react to situations quickly.
- Reduces stress.
Studies show the average amount of sleep for American’s has decreased. At the same time, our stress levels have increased and it’s no coincidence. According to the National Sleep Foundation, 35 percent of adults report that they don't get enough sleep, with women feeling the effects of sleep deprivation more than men. Getting at least 7 hours of sleep a night, in addition to regular exercise and a balanced diet, will minimize stress.
- Helps Your Heart.
Research has shown that consistently losing sleep can weaken our immune systems, making us more vulnerable to sickness. Several studies have shown that a lack of sleep, or getting less than 6 hours of sleep a night regularly, can lead to an irregular heart rate as well as higher blood pressure and increased cholesterol levels, which are both risk factors for heart disease.
So how do you know if you’re getting enough sleep? The way you feel during the day is a good indication. Do you feel alert and awake or tired and run down? If your answer is the later, you’re probably not getting enough sleep.
So be sure to take the steps to ensure you’re getting a good night’s sleep. Not only will you look better, you’ll be healthier too.
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