Sleep is increasingly recognized as one of the foundations of good health, alongside nutrition and physical activity. Research has consistently found that shorter sleep duration is associated with an increased risk of weight gain and obesity. Adults who regularly sleep less than seven hours per night may be more likely to gain weight over time than those who get adequate sleep.
Researchers continue to investigate exactly why sleep has such a powerful impact on health. Current evidence suggests that insufficient sleep may influence hormones involved in hunger and fullness, potentially affecting appetite and food choices. While scientists are still working to fully understand these mechanisms, the relationship between sleep and overall health is well established.
Many people assume feeling tired is simply part of getting older, being busy, raising a family, or juggling work responsibilities. But consistently poor sleep shouldn't be ignored.
The American Academy of Sleep Medicine recommends that healthy adults obtain seven or more hours of sleep each night on a regular basis.
Ask yourself:
• Do you wake feeling refreshed?
• Do you struggle to stay awake during the day?
• Do you need caffeine just to function?
• Has someone told you that you snore loudly?
• Do you wake with headaches or a dry mouth?
• Are you finding it difficult to lose weight despite your efforts?
These symptoms may be related to poor sleep quality or an underlying sleep disorder such as obstructive sleep apnea.
Good sleep hygiene can help:
• Maintain a consistent sleep schedule.
• Limit screen time before bed.
• Create a cool, dark, quiet sleep environment.
• Avoid caffeine late in the day.
• Develop a relaxing bedtime routine.
However, if you've already tried these strategies and still don't feel rested, it may be time for a more comprehensive evaluation.
At Bennett Integrative Health and Wellness, we're excited to offer sleep health and obstructive sleep apnea services to help patients identify barriers to restorative sleep and improve their overall health.
