Why You Need to Sleep
By Virginia Laird
Do you ever wonder if you are getting enough sleep at night? Or, why you need so much sleep? There is plenty of evidence to support the idea that sleep plays a paramount role in the body's ability to operate properly. Without sleep, there is reason to believe that the body can suffer from a variety of illnesses. Knowing that sleeping can have negative effects on your health should be enough for you to begin making it a priority. It is recommended that the average adult get at least six hours of uninterrupted sleep nightly as a matter of routine. However, your children require much more than this. Some say implementing a bedtime for everyone in your home is the best way to ensure a good night of rest. A few reasons you need to make sure you get plenty of sleep include:
- Sleep promotes weight loss
- Getting plenty of sleep boosts the immune system
- Sleep helps manage stress
Sleep Promotes Weight Loss
Though it may seem a bit insane, there is truth to the belief that sleep promotes weight loss. This is, in fact, due to the metabolism and its need for sleep to function properly. When the body is sleep deprived, the metabolism tends to slow down, causing weight gain and reducing the ability to shed unwanted weight. If you are one who is determined to get rid of unwanted weight, it may be time for you to begin to get plenty of sleep each night.
Getting Plenty of Sleep Boosts the Immune System
Some admit that there is a link between the amount of sleep you get and your body's ability to fight off infection. While you sleep, your body is at rest and able to function in a manner to fight off infection, regain energy, and build immunity against a variety of illnesses and diseases. Many believe that getting plenty of sleep is key to preventing illness and remaining healthy.
Sleep Helps Manage Stress
For those who struggle with stress, making sure to get plenty of sleep can be beneficial in managing this issue. There is plenty of research to indicate that when the brain is exhausted, it finds it difficult to think clearly and make good decisions. When the brain is cluttered by exhaustion, it causes more stress. Healthcare professionals say that getting enough rest is key to promoting mental health and ultimately reducing your stress.
Now is the time to take a good look at how much sleep you are getting to determine if you are getting enough to be well rested.
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Murfreesboro, Tenn.