Monday, July 18, 2011

Tips on Getting a Good Night's Sleep


In order to function properly, most people need 7 to 9 hours of sleep a night.

However, studies have shown that people are not getting the proper amount of sleep.

According to the National Sleep Foundation, the amount of sleep required is solely based upon each individuals needs; which can directly relate to a person's physical demands.

The level of quality sleep (hours spent in deep uninterrupted sleep) also has a big influence on the amount of time an individual should spend sleeping each night.

Although there is no established amount of time that everyone should spend sleeping each night, one thing experts are surely certain of is that the body doesn't function well when sleep deprived.

Sleep Deprivation Can Cause:

1. Loss productivity
2. Inability to remember and comprehend information.
3. Weight gain due to increased appetite cause by sleep deprivation.
4. Increase probability of diabetes and heart issues.
5. Psychiatric conditions such as depression and drug abuse.
6. Decreased ability to react to things.
7. Sickness

Northside Hospital's Sleep Disorders Centers offer these tips for getting a better night's sleep:

* Eliminate worries.

* If you are concerned about something, make a list of steps you will take to resolve the problem the next day.

* Take a warm, candle light bath with relaxing music.

* Do some light reading before bedtime.

* Don't nap during the day for longer than 20 minutes on a regular basis.

* Avoid naps after 5 pm.

* Make your bedroom more conducive to sleep (quite, dark, and comfortable).

* Don't read, watch TV, or do work in bed for extended periods of time.

* Finish eating at least 2 to 3 hours before bedtime.

* Exercise regularly, but finish at least 3 hours before bedtime.

* Avoid caffeine, nicotine and alcohol after your evening meal.

* Keep a regular sleep/wake schedule. However don't get into bed unless you're sleepy.

For additional tips, visit northside.com/healthcast/Sleep.

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