06/09/2018 / By Rhonda Johansson
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that one in three Americans are sleep-deprived. This shocking statistic is believed to be the reason many of us are overweight, practicing unhealthy lifestyle habits, and dying younger. And while the pharmaceutical industry pushes for more chemical drugs that can help us sleep better, a simpler solution might be all that is needed for a restful slumber: turning off our mobile phones.
Dr. Sunita Kumar of the Loyola University Medical Center says that simply turning off our phones 30 minutes before sleep could radically affect the quality of our rest. She explains that the blue light emitted from these devices interferes with our circadian rhythm and influences the production of melatonin — the hormone that regulates sleep. As a result, it is more difficult to fall asleep, and even when we do, our cycles are not well-managed.
Not getting enough sleep, or having a poor quality one, is linked to a variety of illnesses and neurocognitive conditions. Scientists have proven that a lack of sleep increases the risk of high blood pressure, heart attack, mood changes, and accidents. Perhaps more worrisome is the observation that people tend to eat more junk food when they lack sleep.
As Dr. Kumar puts it: “Sleep deprivation affects the food choices we make. We tend to go for the sugary donut after a night of poor sleep.”
Ironically, many of us already know the importance of a good night’s sleep so we use tracking apps on our phone to evaluate our sleep. Yet these very same “helpful” apps are causing us to stay awake for longer. A better way, Dr. Kumar suggests, is to just train your body naturally — set up a sleep schedule where you go to bed and wake up at generally the same time everyday, even on weekends. Eventually your body will adjust and you will no longer need an app. (Related: Natural Sleep Aids: Enjoy a Good Night of Sleep.)
There are easy and natural ways to sleep better. Here are some of them:
These simple changes can have a dramatic effect on how well you sleep tonight. Remember that sleep is a beautiful thing and also a crucial aspect of your overall health. Do all you can so that you can have more restful night and active days. Read more natural ways to improve your sleep at Natural.news.
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Tagged Under: disease prevention, natural remedies, proper diet, proper sleep, restful sleep, sleep function, sleep habits, unhealthy lifestyle habits