The Importance of a Good Night's Sleep

A good night’s sleep shouldn’t be something you dream of; it should be part of your everyday routine. We know that it is often easier said than done, but a full night’s sleep is just as vital to your overall health as diet and exercise. In today’s fast-paced world, here are five reasons you’ll want to ensure you are getting a full night’s rest:

1. Your Weight Can Suffer

Lack of sleep affects your glucose metabolism and disrupts your appetite hormones. It’s believed that those who lack proper sleep overeat, and those who regularly have fewer than six hours of sleep a night can show symptoms of prediabetes.

2. More Brain Power and Productivity

Sleep is a necessity for proper brain power. Cognition, concentration, productivity, and performance are all based on receiving quality rest. Studies have shown that constant sleep deprivation can lead to a similar degree of brain function like someone with alcohol intoxication. With proper rest, you can improve your problem-solving skills and enhance your memory, leading to more productive work days.

3. Better Physical Performance

From your workout to your after-work basketball league, proper rest is known to improve your reaction time, speed, and mental health. The better sleep you receive, the better you’ll be able to perform physical tasks.

4. Less Chance of Illness

Your immune system is supported with rest — the more you neglect that, the harder it is for your body to fight off common colds and viruses. Even the smallest amount of lost sleep can impair your immune system. If you find yourself always fighting off a cold, be sure to get a consecutive eight hours of sleep every night.

5. Less Risk of Disease

When your body gets adequate rest, it also gets a recharge. When you sleep, your blood pressure slowly decreases; so when you cut that short, you increase your chances of high blood pressure, heart disease, and stroke. Lack of sleep can also lead to an increase in inflammation, depression, and type 2 diabetes, making those 8 hours crucial for your whole body health.