We know it can be hard to get a good night’s rest sometimes.
The worries on our minds can keep us tossing and turning all night long. Soon
enough, it is morning and time to get up. But a good night’s rest can do more
than just help us feel refreshed all day. The Health Briefs TV show reviews why
we need sleep.
People who get less than six hours of sleep at night are
more likely to incur the risk factors which increase the chance of developing
diabetes, heart disease and strokes. High blood sugar, high cholesterol, high
blood pressure, extra fat around the middle and extra fat cells in the blood
are a dangerous combination of risk factors. “Short” sleepers, as they are
called, can also develop metabolic syndrome which sometimes can lead to life
threatening and chronic diseases. Loss of sleep also can lead to loss of brain
cells. Cognitive motor performance can match that of someone with five alcoholic
drinks in them with less than 24 hours without sleep, according to a study in
Nature.
The Health Briefs television show suggests a few tips for
getting to bed on time and having a restful sleep:
- Stick to a regular bed time every night and on weekends too.
- Stick to a regular time to wake up every day.
- Move digital devices to another room, draw the blinds, and prepare bed for a pleasant rest.
- Adjust the thermostat to a comfortable temperature.
- Read something until the eyes are tired and want to close.
- Force negative thoughts from the mind.
We need to sleep in order to maintain good brain health,
overall health and wellness, and to be mentally alert for every moment life
offers us.
