In our non-stop, always-on society, a good night's sleep might feel like a luxury—but it's actually a necessity. Just as regular exercise and a healthy diet are vital for your wellbeing, so too is quality sleep. Let's dive into the fascinating world of sleep and discover why it's an essential part of living well and staying well.
Sleep is the body's natural way of restoring and rejuvenating itself. During sleep, your body works to support healthy brain function and maintain physical health. According to research by the National Institutes of Health, ongoing sleep deficiency is linked to an increased risk of heart disease, kidney disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, and stroke.
A growing body of research shows a strong correlation between quality sleep and longevity. A study published in the journal Sleep found that people who get seven to eight hours of sleep per night have a significantly lower mortality rate than those who get less or more sleep. While we sleep, our bodies produce cytokines, a type of protein that targets infection and inflammation, creating an immune response. Lack of sleep may decrease production of these protective cytokines and other immune cells. It's not a coincidence that you feel better after a good night's sleep; it's your body's way of fighting back.
However, it's not just about the amount of sleep, but also its quality. Sleep disturbances can lead to not feeling refreshed upon waking, even after a full 7-8 hours of sleep. Prioritize good sleep hygiene habits, such as maintaining a consistent sleep schedule, creating a restful environment, and considering a bedtime ritual.
Embracing good sleep is part of the journey to living well and staying well. It is as important to our health and wellbeing as nutrition and exercise. By prioritizing quality sleep, we are supporting our body's natural ability to heal, restore, and rejuvenate. So let's tuck in early tonight for the sake of longevity because every good day starts with a good night. Remember, "live well, stay well" applies even in your dreams!