We
are quite aware of the fact that lack of sleep can make us feel grumpy and
affect our productivity at work. But little did you know that sleeplessness can
potentially lead to physical health complications.
In
UK, one in three people suffers from sleep deprivation due to constant stress
and work pressure. Persistent sleeplessness can put you at the risk of severe
medical issues, such as obesity, diabetes, heart disease and depression. It may
even cut short your life expectancy. So, it is crystal clear that you need
adequate sleep for long and healthy life.
What happens when you don’t get enough sleep?
A
poor night’s sleep causes lack of concentration, fatigue and frustration. It
even makes you feel irritable and tired throughout the day. If this becomes a
habit, you feel exhausted mentally as well as physically. Your brain is drained
out, making it difficult to focus and make appropriate decisions. You may feel drowsy
and fall asleep during the daytime. Moreover, your risk of accidents or injury
at home, work or on road increases. And if it persists, you are vulnerable to
obesity, heart disease, hypertension and diabetes.
Benefits of a good sleep
- Boosts immune system and helps fight common cold and flu
- Helps enhance the body’s ability to repair and regenerate
- Improves mental wellbeing
- Wards off cardiovascular diseases
- Enhances sexual drives and prevents fertility issues
- Prevents diabetes and obesity
If
you are a chronic sufferer of sleepless, there is one way to compensate i.e.
getting more sleep. It may take several weeks to develop a proper sleeping
habit. The best time to go to bed is when you are tired. Make a habit of
allowing your body to rise in the morning.
According
to medical experts, our body requires at least eight hours of sound sleep at
night to function optimally. If you wake up exhausted and craving to sleep
more, it is more likely that you are not getting sufficient sleep. Try to stay
away from energy drinks and coffee as they contain caffeine, which may prevent
you from getting a quality sleep. Sometimes you may require sleeping aids to achieve a good night’s sleep; talk to your GP regarding the same.
