and Health

Getting enough sleep is an important part of maintaining good health. Recent studies have found that a lack of sleep can have a significant impact on cholesterol levels. Here, we look at the importance of sleep for cholesterol health and overall health.

Impact of Sleep on Cholesterol Levels

Research has shown that people who get less than 7 hours of sleep per night have higher levels of unhealthy cholesterol. Furthermore, people who get between 7 and 9 hours of sleep are shown to have the lowest levels of bad cholesterol and the highest levels of good cholesterol.

Short-Term Effects of Not Getting Enough Sleep

Not getting enough sleep can have an immediate impact on cholesterol levels. Studies have found that people who suffer from sleep deprivation for just one night can have their levels of bad cholesterol increase substantially. This means that trying to “catch up” on sleep during the weekend isn’t enough – you need to get an adequate amount of sleep every night for your body to stay healthy.

The Health Benefits of Adequate Sleep

Getting enough sleep not only helps you maintain your cholesterol levels, it can also help improve your overall health. Quality sleep helps your body’s natural processes, boosts immunity, and regulates hormones that control appetite.

Tips for Better Sleep

In order to get the most out of your sleep, there are a few things that can help. Here are some tips to help you get better sleep at night:

Avoid Stimulants:

Caffeine, energy drinks and other stimulants should be avoided, especially in the evening and late at night.

Establish a Regular Routine:

Going to bed and getting up at the same time each day helps your body and mind to become accustomed to a regular routine, making it easier to fall asleep.

Exercise:

Exercising regularly can help you fall asleep faster and stay asleep for longer.

Restrict Light:

The blue light from screens can disrupt the body’s natural sleep/wake cycle, so it’s important to avoid devices before bed.

Conclusion

A lack of sleep can have an immediate and dramatic impact on cholesterol levels, so it’s important to get an adequate amount of quality sleep every night. Incorporating the above tips can help you achieve better sleep, which can lead to better health overall.