By: Dr. Riffat Sadiq
Sleep is very important to our overall health. Without sleep, we won’t be able to concentrate on our daily tasks. Sleep improves our memory, increases our energy and it is also good for our immune system
Lack of sleep can cause:
- Headaches and migraines
- Poor vision
- Weight gain
- Mood changes
- Daytime sleeping
- Reduced focus
- Fatigue
In addition to these, lack of sleep can influence your weight and skin. The National Sleep Foundation “recommends adults sleep at least seven to nine hours each night. During sleep, your body releases growth hormones, which help with cell and tissue repair and restore your skin. Sleep also ensures the production of cytokines, which are molecules that help the immune system fight infections, including ones that affect the skin.”
Research has also shown that lack of sleep can lead to a higher BMI than individuals who have an adequate amount of sleep each night. During the night we are less active, and we tend to eat more in the evening. “When you have poor sleep or lack of rest, you’re setting a whole cascade of events in motion hormonally that could set you up for weight gain,” says John M. Jakicic, director of the Physical Activity and Weight Management Research Center at the University of Pittsburgh.
Here are some helpful tips for falling asleep faster:
- Turn off lights and sleep in a darkened room
- Avoid caffeine close to bedtime
- Stop distractions or stressful situations
- Don’t go to bed hungry, a small late-night snack may help satiate your hunger
- Avoid screen time an hour before bed