Sleep makes us feel refreshed each day but, its importance goes way beyond banishing those grumpy mornings and tired eyes. When you get an optimal amount of sleep each night your overall health improves, and you can function more efficiently. Giving yourself an extra hour or two of sleep each night can lead to a life time of health benefits and disease prevention.
There are many benefits to getting a good night’s rest. Sleep reduces inflammation and stress, as well as heart related conditions like stroke and diabetes. Sleep can improve your memory and help you lose weight. Sleep helps the body repair and defend itself and has potential to prevent depression and cancer!
When your body is sleep deficient, it goes into a state of stress. The body starts to function on high alert which raises blood pressure and production of stress hormones. Increased stress hormones cause inflammation in the body and can lead to stroke and diabetes.
Your body needs rest in order for it to function properly. To wake up well rested it’s crucial to get a good nights sleep. Melatonin is the hormone that regulates our sleep-cycle and is thought to prevent cancer and suppress the growth of tumors. To help your body produce the melatonin it needs and get a good night’s sleep make sure your bedroom is dark and try to avoid using electronics before bed.
There are plenty of health risks associated with lack of sleep. You may find yourself struggling with depression or having a hard time losing weight. Slacking on sleep can also lead to heart complications, memory loss, and cancer. Studies have shown that people that get less than 6-7 hours of sleep each night are at a greater risk for developing these diseases. Adequate sleep is a key part of a healthy lifestyle and can benefit your heart weight and mind.