Did you know that there is a strong connection between sleep and heart health? Believe it or not, getting enough sleep is just as important for your heart as exercise and a healthy diet. So what are you waiting for? Start sleeping better tonight!
Most people know that getting a good night's sleep is important, but many don't realize just how vital it is to overall health. New research is shedding light on the sleep heart health connection, and it turns out that getting adequate shut-eye may be one of the best things you can do for your cardiovascular system. According to a study published in the journal "Sleep", people who get less than six hours of sleep per night are at an increased risk of developing heart disease or having a stroke. Conversely, those who get seven or more hours of sleep per night have a reduced risk. Sleep disorders also play a role. People who suffer from common sleep disorders such as sleep apnea or insomnia are far more likely to have heart arrhythmias, plaque buildup, heart failure and coronary artery disease than the general public.
There are many benefits to getting a good night’s sleep, including reducing stress levels and improving heart health. When you don’t get enough sleep, your body releases more of the stress hormone cortisol. Cortisol is a hormone that is produced by the adrenal gland. It is released in response to stress and has several important functions, including regulating blood pressure and blood sugar levels. Cortisol also plays a role in the body's sleep-wake cycle. Normally, cortisol levels are highest in the morning and decrease throughout the day. This pattern is reversed in people who are stressed or have anxiety disorders, which can lead to difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep. In addition, cortisol can interfere with Rapid Eye Movement (REM) sleep, which is the deepest and most restful stage of sleep. As a result, people who are under stress may find that they wake up feeling tired and unrested. Although cortisol is an important hormone, it can be detrimental to sleep when its levels are out of balance.
Getting enough sleep isn't the only important factor here. The research shows that the quality of sleep is just as important.
So what's the key to getting quality slumber? It seems that going to bed and waking up at consistent times each day is crucial for good sleep hygiene. Additionally, sticking to a regular routine before bed can help signal your body that it's time for rest. If you're having trouble sleeping, make sure to avoid watching television or using electronic devices in the hours leading up to bedtime. Instead, try reading or meditating until you drift off. Finally, make sure your bedroom is dark, quiet, and cool to create an optimal sleep environment.
Talk with your doctor if you have symptoms of a sleep disorder or consistently have trouble sleeping.
There you have it! The surprising connection between sleep and heart health. So next time you’re feeling tired, don’t reach for another cup of coffee. Instead, take a nap or go to bed early to give your heart the rest it needs. Trust us, your heart will thank you! For more information about visit www.SamHoustonHeart.net
