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ONE OF THE BEST THINGS YOU CAN DO FOR YOUR HEALTH
GOOD SLEEP Fatema AlOthman
H
ealthy sleep is essential for optimum energy, immunity, cognitive ability and physical strength and resilience.
With all the essential physiological functioning and repair that happens during sleep, emphasis on good sleep is one of the first and best things you can do to improve your overall health and well-being.
While you’re asleep, your body works to:
BENEFITS OF QUALITY SLEEP Repair tissues (including those involved in muscle growth and healing injuries) lRegulate hormone levels (including those that control appetite, metabolism and stress) lForm new pathways in your brain for learning and memory lProcess and regulate emotions l
THE IMPACT OF SLEEP LOSS ON YOUR HEALTH Routinely sleeping less than 6-7 hours per night can have serious health impacts: l Weight gain l weakened immune system l increased risk of diabetes l increased risk of heart disease and stroke l reduction in cancer-fighting cells l increased risk of injury l increased stress hormone levels
Increased energy Strengthened immune system l Heightened alertness, focus and creativity l Improved mood l Improved physical performance and ability to build muscles l Increased motivation to make beneficial lifestyle choices (cooking, exercise, self-care, etc.) Sleep is the single most effective thing we can do to reset our brain and body health each day. l l
HOW MUCH SLEEP DO YOU REALLY NEED? Everyone requires quality sleep for optimal health and well-being, but the number of hours can vary depending on individual and age group. The National Sleep Foundation and Centers for Disease Control recommend 7-9 hours for adults. Pay attention to your sleep this week: How many hours per night are you getting? Are you an early bird or a night owl? www.cpmagazine.net
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