Sleep….are we getting enough?

A lack of sleep can adversely affect your mental and physical health. According to a study, one in three Americans suffer from sleep deprivation. Are you one of them? Getting proper uninterrupted sleep is incredibly important to live a happy and healthy life. A good night’s sleep will enhance your mental health and increase your memory.

Read on to find how sleep affects your body and how you can get rid of sleep deprivation.

Sleep Is Important, So Why?

The human body needs proper sleep to work and function effectively. After working all day long, systems of the human body need some rest to gain potential for the next day. Maintaining a healthy schedule of sleep will help you to stay motivated, vigilant, and active. A full night’s sleep will help prevent mood swings and reduce the signs of depression.

In addition, sleep is important for maintaining your physical health. Sleep helps to strengthen your immune system. The less you sleep, the more commonly you will get sick. During sleep, the vital body organs slow down while others function to heal and repair damaged body tissues. Moreover, sleep is important for maintaining body weight in a healthy range2.

What Areas of The Body Are Affected by Sleep Deprivation?

The major system that is affected first by sleep deprivation is the central nervous system. During sleep, the brain helps memorize the things you learn while awake but sleep deprivation leaves your brain exhausted. It also affects mental abilities and emotional state.

The next system that is affected by sleep deprivation is the gastrointestinal system. Lack of sleep affects the digestion and absorption of the food you eat. Sleep deprivation is a serious risk factor of becoming overweight and obese. Moreover, sleep helps keep all the body’s processes in balance to keep your heart healthy3.

What Causes Sleep Disruption?

There are multiple causes of sleep disruptions, and many things trigger it. It is believed that sleep is disrupted due to a state of hyperarousal. Hyperarousal can be both physical, and mental and many different situations are causing it like:

1. Stress and anxiety

2. Frequent urination

3. Pain and allergy

4. Obstructive sleep apnea

5. Certain medications

6. Aging

How Can You Fix Sleep Deprivation?

Following are some tips that help you to get proper sleep and save you from the adverse effects of sleep deprivation:

1. Take scheduled sleep by going to bed at the same time every day.

2. Quit the consumption of alcohol, caffeine, and tobacco.

3. Do not work out before going to bed. Do exercise at least 5 to 6 hours before going to sleep.

4. Sleep in a quiet, dark, and peaceful place without any disruption.

5. Do meditation, breathing exercises, and mindfulness training for proper sleep.

Supplements That Aid with Sleep

1. Melatonin: It aids in sleep for those who have trouble falling asleep or who keep awake all night. It is safe for healthy adults if taken for only a few months.

2. Valerian: This herb is found in many supplements to aid relaxation of the mind and muscles to help a person fall asleep.

3. Cannabidiol oil: CBD oil relaxes the mind and helps you feel less anxious, allowing you to sleep better.

4. Glycine: Many supplements contain this amino acid to enhance your sleep. It increases serotonin levels in the brain, which increases blood flow and lowers body temperature to aid in sleeping.

Essential oils that may help

1. Lavender Oil: Helps to relax the body, reduce stress and feelings of anxiety.

2. Roman Chamomile: Inhaling is a natural remedy for anxiety and general feelings of depression.

3. Clary Sage: Reduces inflammation and has a soothing effect.

4. Ylang Ylang: May improve your mood and create a more relaxed state for the body.

The Bottom Line

A good night’s sleep is necessary to keep the body’s systems functioning properly. of the human body. Sleep deprivation triggers many health issues like depression, respiratory disorders, infertility, and weight gain. Do proper exercise, eat healthily, and go to bed timely to stay healthy. In case you are wondering which foods can help to improve your sleep, you can find your Sleep Well meal plan here.

Work With Me!

If you have tried everything you know possible to get a good night sleep, and would like to explore other options to improve the quality of sleep, you can book a FREE 15-minute call with me here.