Do You Feel Like You Never Rest?
By Tom Herrin
In our busy lives these days, many of us are negligent in one of the most important areas of all. We don’t get enough quality rest. It may not be that we don’t sleep, but sometimes poor sleep can still rob us of many of the things that are critical for good health. Inadequate sleep is a recipe for disaster in our lives. Some of us simply can’t turn off our brains, but finding a formula that works for you as an individual is something that really needs attention. Everyone doesn’t have to have eight hours of sleep, but there is a minimum that probably works for you. Most people need at least six, but seven is even better.
There Are Some Direct Health Risks
Sleep deprivation is associated with several kinds of health problems. It is thought to contribute to increased blood pressure and cholesterol. Both of these conditions can lead to a greater chance of heart attacks. It is also thought that decreased levels of melatonin can lead to higher instances of colon and breast cancers. Melatonin is thought to help prevent those cancers but may be decreased by excessive amounts of light. Electronic devices producing light are thought to reduce melatonin. It is suggested to sleep in a dark room.
We Have Some Good Responses To Sleep
Our natural processes enable us to heal more properly with sleep. We also can manage our weight better with adequate sleep. There have been many studies out that indicate that lack of sleep can increase the likelihood of weight gain. This may be combined with the improved energy level we experience when we have enough sleep. Sluggishness will not usually help us to burn calories as efficiently.
Mental Alertness Is Reduced Without Enough Sleep
Most of us have experienced times when we seem drowsy from lack of sleep. Drivers deprived of sleep have been considered to be similar to intoxicated drivers in their responses behind the wheel. Our memory will be sharper with sleep. We will be better able to make good decisions. Sleep is thought to be able to help reduce stress, depression, and poor performance at work and school. There is not always an easy fix for sleep problems, but you may have to play with your schedule to find what works best for you. The results will be well worth it, so take a little time to wind down earlier and relax. This is one thing that can produce results by tomorrow.
To learn more about your health and wellness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic.