Many people think that the best way to live a healthy life is by eating well and exercising regularly. But, while both efforts can reap great benefits for your health, you might be missing another important factor: healthy sleep.
Eating well and working out on a regular basis sure sound great if you want to stay healthy. But, you may weaken these efforts if you don’t get enough sleep. How much is enough, though? Experts say a healthy sleep is composed of six to eight hours without interruption. Get this and you’re sure to feel the positive effects of a good night’s rest.
If you want to learn why sleep is important for your health, this article is for you. We will discuss why it is important to get a sound sleep and some helpful tips for you to achieve it.
Reasons Why Healthy Sleep is Important
It Helps Prevent Illnesses Such as Heart Disease and Diabetes
Everyone experiences some sleep trouble from time to time. However, if you are extremely lacking sleep, you’re exposed to a higher risk of developing type 2 diabetes or heart disease. People who commonly suffer from an extreme lack of sleep are those with sleep disorders such as insomnia or sleep apnea. If you are suffering from a sleep disorder, it’s best to consult with your physician. They can help you address your problem in getting a restful night so you can avoid acquiring illnesses related to sleep deprivation.
It Makes You Feel Better
Many people would want to jump into their beds and doze off after a tiring day. We all probably know how it feels to wake up after getting a restful time. We instantly feel refreshed and more alert. Our bodies also experience fewer pains, our minds are able to think clearer, and we feel more able to take on the day.
It Helps You to Lose Weight
If you shed some pounds, getting a healthy sleep should be a part of your fitness routine. Having a restful night helps in weight loss because it prevents late-night cravings. Obviously, the longer you’re up, the more likely you crave for calories that aren’t actually necessary. Late-night snacking can contribute to weight gain. In fact, researchers at the University of Pennsylvania found out that it can make you gain up to two pounds in just one week.
Having an adequate amount of sleep also helps your body torch calories even without the need for a workout! Another study from the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition discovered a correlation between sleep deprivation and obesity. The study found that the resting energy expenditure (the amount of burned calories when you are not moving) of normal sleepers was higher by five percent compared to sleep-deprived individuals. They were also able to burn 20 percent more calories after a meal than their exhausted counterparts.
