Sleeping Patterns

Sleep is one of the most important factors affecting a persons health. The National Sleep Foundation states that sleep is a basic human need and is just as important for good health as diet and physical activity.

In the long term, sleep deprivation has been linked to premature ageing, digestive disturbances, psychological problems, behavioural disturbances and a myriad of chronic diseases (which include lowered immunity, insulin resistance, obesity, diabetes, heart disease and even cancer.

In the short term, too little sleep results in daytime drowsiness, inability to concentrate, increased risk of accidents and reduced overall productivity and performance.

Deep sleep coincides with the release of growth hormone, subsequently deep sleep allows for physical repair and regeneration or many of the body’s cells.

Strategies to improve sleeping patterns include exercise, a set time for sleep, avoiding watching tv or using phone screens, and room temperature control.