Sleep Better to Feel Better

Sleep…who couldn’t use more of it? Telltale signs of needing more sleep are an overwhelming desire to shut off your alarm clock and stay in bed, a frequent morning headache, and afternoon drowsiness (have you ever nodded off during a mid-afternoon meeting?). Getting enough sleep can get harder as the days get longer in spring and summer, but these tips and tricks can help. You may be shocked at your newfound energy and maybe even weight loss!

Sleep, Weight, and Health

Why should you dedicate more time to sleep? Is it not just a selfish luxury that steals time from other priorities? Not at all! Sleep is critical for a healthy mind and body. It helps you think clearly and focus. It allows your brain to process the previous day’s events. It lets your muscles recover. Oh, and if you are concerned about your blood sugar, sleep aids in insulin sensitivity.

But wait…there is more! Sleep can help you lose weight in a few ways, and skimping on sleep can have the opposite effect. Lack of sleep leads to higher levels of the hunger hormone ghrelin, which leads to greater hunger. At the same time, cravings for high-carb foods increase, and your ability to resist temptation decreases. Finally, you may feel lethargic when you are sleep-deprived, and the result can be less movement and fewer calories burned throughout the day.

Better Sleep Habits – Quantity and Quality

Once you decide to support yourself with better sleep, the next question is how. First, get enough sleep. That means setting aside enough time each night. It may mean cutting back on television or simply staying focused in the evening so it does not get too late before you know it.

Then, the quality of your sleep helps determine how rested you are the next day. These tips can help you get to sleep faster and stay asleep for longer.

• Avoid caffeine for at least 6 hours before bed.
• Sleep in a cool, dark, quiet room.
• Do not eat too much too close to bedtime.
• Put aside electronic devices at least 30 minutes before bedtime.
• Establish a relaxing bedtime routine that is consistent each night.

Also, getting exercise during the day helps with nighttime shut-eye.

Natural Sleep Aids

People often use natural sleep aids to complement their healthy sleep habits or to get over hurdles such as jet lag. BariatricPal Sleep Support Spray has 3 mg of melatonin, which is a natural hormone and a non-habit-forming sleep aid. It has been used to overcome jet lag, fall asleep faster, and stay asleep. Just use two sprays before bedtime or as your doctor recommends. Each bottle has 75 doses.

The value of sleep is nearly limitless, and you owe it to yourself to get enough. Try those healthy sleep tips and consider an aid such as BariatricPal Sleep Support Spray, and you may find yourself more energetic and better able to take on the day.