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Are you getting enough sleep?
Getting a good night’s sleep is vital to our physical and mental wellbeing. When we are sleep deprived, we are more likely to make mistakes in the workplace and have accidents at home or on the road. We may also be uncharacteristically snappy with our friends, co-workers and family. These factors, coupled with the health problems associated with lack of sleep, can be addressed by ensuring that we get the sleep we need. Sleep and the Brain Sleep is essential for our brain to perform at its optimal level. It improves our concentration levels, cognition, memory, problem-solving skills, performance and productivity. Studies have shown that sleep deprivation can impair brain function to exactly the same extent as drinking too much alcohol. Sleep and your Immune System Many studies have shown that getting enough sleep strengthens your immune system and helps you to fight off disease much quicker than those people who are sleep deprived. Sleep and Physical Performance A good night’s sleep is imperative when it comes to performing well on the pitch, on the track, in the gym or just on a daily hike. Health Issues · Research has shown that people who don’t get enough sleep and/or poor-quality sleep are more likely to suffer from strokes and heart disease. · Getting little sleep or poor quality sleep affects our blood sugar levels and can lead to increased risk of type 2 diabetes. · Sleep issues can also lead to depression which can start a vicious circle, where you can’t sleep because you’re depressed, and your mind is never still. · It has been shown that many people with inflammation issues, particularly inflammation of the digestive tract, are often suffering from sleep deprivation. Studies of people with Crohn’s disease have shown that patients who don’t sleep well are far more likely to suffer a relapse. |
