Importance Of Get Enough Sleep In Your Life

It's crucial to obtain sufficient rest. Rest contributes to maintaining both your mental and physical well-being.

Getting sufficient sleep is vital, and you might be asking, "How many hours of sleep do I require?" Most adults need at least 7 hours of high-quality sleep each night on a consistent schedule. Adequate sleep is not just about the total hours; it's also essential to have good quality sleep on a regular schedule to feel refreshed upon waking.

If you frequently have difficulty sleeping or if you often feel fatigued even after sleeping consult your doctor.

Sometimes it is hard to fall asleep, several factors can make it difficult for you to sleep, including:

- Stress or anxiety

- Pain

- Certain health conditions, such as heartburn or asthma

- Some medications

- Caffeine (commonly from coffee, tea, and soda)

- Alcohol and other substances

- Untreated sleep disorders, such as sleep apnea or insomnia

If you're struggling with sleep, consider adjusting your habits to get the rest you need. You might want to:

- Change your daytime activities — for instance, engage in physical exercise in the morning instead of the evening

- Create a comfortable sleep environment — for example, ensure your bedroom is dark and quiet

- Establish a bedtime routine — for example, go to bed at the same time each night

In addition to being highly enjoyable, sleeping well has significant positive effects on our body. Here are the six most beneficial effects according to specialists:

Boosts Creativity

When the brain is well-rested and hormone production is balanced, memory functions optimally. This enhances imagination and makes us more creative.

Aids in Weight Loss

Lack of sleep causes fat cells (adipocytes) to release less leptin, the hormone that suppresses appetite. Insomnia also causes the stomach to release more ghrelin (the hunger hormone). These factors link poor sleep to obesity.

Promotes Better Health

Our immune system uses sleep time to regenerate, enabling it to effectively combat toxins and germs that constantly threaten us. A weak immune system significantly reduces our ability to overcome infections.

Enhances Memory

Sleep strengthens neural connections. During REM sleep, the hippocampus, our memory storehouse, is restored, converting short-term memory into long-term memory. Research at the University of Haifa (Israel) has shown that a 90-minute nap in the afternoon helps solidify memories and skills.

Protects the Heart

A recent study published in the European Heart Journal found that insomniacs are three times more likely to suffer heart failure than those who sleep well. Insomnia raises blood levels of stress hormones, which increases blood pressure and heart rate. Other studies also link insomnia to higher cholesterol levels.

Reduces Depression

During sleep, the body relaxes, facilitating the production of melatonin and serotonin. These hormones counteract the effects of stress hormones (adrenaline and cortisol), helping us feel happier and emotionally stronger. Conversely, lack of sleep leads to an increased and sustained release of stress hormones.



Dr. Eric - Your Santa Monica Chiropractor





REFERENCES:

US Department of Health and Human Services.September 15, 2022

Fundacion Española del Corazon ¨Why it is necessary to sleep¨ 22 Jun, 2023.