The Surprising Link Between Sleep and Heart Health
As we age, it's easy to prioritize our work and social lives over our sleep. But what we may not realize is that getting enough quality sleep is just as important for our health as eating a balanced diet and exercising regularly. In fact, getting adequate sleep can play a significant role in preventing heart disease. How so? Let’s find out.
Blood Pressure
One way that sleep affects our heart health is through our blood pressure. When we sleep, our blood pressure naturally drops, giving our hearts a rest. However, if we don't get enough sleep, our blood pressure may not have the chance to drop, leading to higher levels of pressure over time. This can put extra strain on our hearts and increase our risk of developing heart disease.
Blood Sugar
Sleep also plays a role in our blood sugar levels. When we don't get enough sleep, our body may become less sensitive to insulin, which is a hormone that helps regulate our blood sugar. This can lead to higher levels of sugar in our blood, which can contribute to the development of heart disease.
Body Weight
Another way that sleep can impact our heart health is through our weight. When we don't get enough sleep, our body produces more of the hormone ghrelin, which stimulates our appetite, and less of the hormone leptin, which signals to our brain that we're full. This can lead to overeating and weight gain, both of which are risk factors for heart disease.
So, how can we improve our sleep and protect our heart health? Here are 6 tips:
1. Stick to a consistent sleep schedule: Try to go to bed and wake up at the same time every day, even on the weekends.
2. Create a relaxing bedtime routine: Whether it's taking a warm bath, reading a book, or practicing relaxation techniques like yoga or meditation, finding ways to unwind before bed can help you fall asleep faster and stay asleep longer.
3. Make your bedroom a sleep-friendly environment: This means keeping the temperature cool, reducing noise and light, and investing in a comfortable mattress and pillows.
4. Limit caffeine, alcohol, and nicotine: These substances can disrupt your sleep and negatively impact your heart health, so it's best to avoid them altogether or limit your intake as much as possible.
5. Get regular exercise: Exercise can help you fall asleep faster and improve the quality of your sleep, which can in turn benefit your heart health.
6. Talk to your doctor: If you're having trouble sleeping, it's important to talk to your doctor. They may be able to recommend lifestyle changes, prescribe medication, or refer you to a sleep specialist.
By making sleep a priority in our lives, we can improve our heart health and reduce our risk of developing heart disease. So, go ahead and hit the hay a little earlier tonight – your heart will thank you for it!
Looking for more sleep-related wellness tips? Stay tuned as we explore more topics next month throughout Sleep Awareness Week. Make sure to subscribe to our blog at the bottom of this page, and follow us on Instagram and Facebook so you don’t miss out!
Resources
How Does Sleep Affect Your Heart Health?
Sleep and Blood Glucose Levels
Sleep More to Eat Less: How Sleep Affects the “Hunger Hormone”
