If you often experience tossing and turning in bed, then you could be suffering from sleep deprivation. This condition can cause you to feel tired and cranky the next day. Continuously missing out on sleep can have adverse effects on your body. Health experts recommend both children and adults to get eight hours of quality sleep each day to function efficiently at school or work.
Sleep deprivation is a serious matter. It can result in several side effects that affect not only the brain but also your health. Here are some examples to begin with.
Memory lapses
If you lack sleep, you are most likely to experience memory lapses. This can affect your decision-making skills. It will help if you have enough sleep for your brain to form necessary actions that will aid you in remembering old and new information.
Hypertension
Studies say that people who sleep for six hours a day have higher risks of developing high blood pressure. This condition if left untreated, can cause cardiovascular diseases, including stroke and heart attack.
Type 2 diabetes
Poor sleeping habits can be one of the leading causes of type 2 diabetes. Your body will have a hard time producing insulin resulting in elevated blood sugar levels.
Poor immune system
If you are continually having a hard time sleeping, then your immune system can suffer. Lack of sleep can make you susceptible to common illnesses like coughs, colds, fever, and flu. Taking vitamins can enhance your immune system; however, getting sleep should become a priority.
Obesity or weight gain
Research shows that lack of sleep will make you fatter. When you have insomnia, you also suffer from a chemical imbalance. Your brain can receive signals that you are hungry. This will cause you to overeat and eventually gain unwanted weight.
Prone to accidents
If you lack sleep, several cognitive skills are compromised. Your focus, creative thinking and your ability to solve problems will most likely be affected. You are also at risk of getting into accidents while driving and commuting.
Telltale signs that you are suffering from sleep deprivation:
- You frequently feel very sleepy at any time of the day.
- You are continually yawning, which is embarrassing.
- You quickly get mad or irritated over small things.
- You experience fatigue throughout the day.
- You have the urge to drink more coffee to keep you awake.
Here are some simple tips to help you sleep better at night:
- Avoid late-night snacking. It can affect your sleeping pattern.
- Stay away from alcohol and coffee before bedtime.
- Eat dinner five hours before going to bed.
- Take a warm and relaxing bath an hour before bedtime. Use lavender scented products to promote sleep.
- Take doctor-approved supplements like melatonin.
- See a doctor and discuss your condition.
Lastly, your bed plays a significant role in treating sleep deprivation. Find a reputable company that sells Tommy Bahama bedding sets. You need to invest in a soft, comfortable and high-quality bed and mattress.
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