It has been hard for many of us to get adequate, sound sleep during this horrid pandemic, but sleep is still one of the most important ways we can keep our bodies happy and healthy. In fact, the CDC recommends that adults get between seven and nine hours of sleep each night.

If you have been able to get consistently good sleep, you’re not alone. Read on as our team at AFC Urgent Care Southcenter highlights why sleep is important for the body and how to improve it.

What Does Sleep Do to My Health?

Sleep plays a hugely important role in your overall health. Unfortunately, sleep is one of those things that many of us put on the backburner, but it has a bigger impact than many might think.

Studies show getting quality sleep on a regular basis can help improve all sorts of issues, from your blood sugar to your workouts. We’ve listed some more ways sleep is important for your overall health below.

Ways Sleep Is Beneficial to Your Health

• Improves cognitive ability. Sleep plays a big part in both learning and memory. Without enough sleep, it’s tough to take in and process new information.
• Boosts your mood. Your brain processes emotions when asleep, and if you consistently get a fitful night of rest, you’re susceptible to more negative emotions and less positive ones.
• Boosts heart health. While you sleep, your blood pressure goes down, giving your heart and blood vessels a bit of a rest. The less sleep you get, the longer your blood pressure stays up during a 24-hour cycle. High blood pressure can lead to heart disease, including stroke.

How Can I Get Better Sleep?

We all know those people that can sleep through anything. While that’s great for them, many of us don’t have that luxury.

To help, we’ve listed some practical ways you can help your body get better sleep below.

Habits to Improve Sleep Quality

• Turn off the TV and other screens earlier.
• Don’t eat snack foods right before bed. Eating right before bedtime doesn’t allow your body enough time to digest.
• Pick up a book before bed instead of using a screen.
• Take a warm bath an hour or so before bedtime.
• Have a set routine, going to bed and waking up at the same times each day.
• Make your room dark, cool and quiet. If you like white noise, try a fan or sound machine.
• Try breathing exercises or gentle stretches to calm your mind before bed.

Getting enough sleep is an important part of your health! If getting adequate sleep has become an issue or if you have other health concerns, don’t hesitate to contact our team at AFC Urgent Care Southcenter.