How to get a better night''s sleep
People aiming to enjoy a better night's rest have been advised there are a number of secrets that can help them to achieve sound sleep on a more regular basis.
According to sleep aid pharmaceutical manufacturer LipoRid PM, one of the most important factors in getting to sleep lies in creating a peaceful and distraction-free environment in which to do so.
With this in mind, individuals are advised of the need to remove night-time distractions in the bedroom, such as electronic equipment including mobile phones, TVs, alarm clocks and other devices.
Furthermore, darkness is essential for restful sleep and therefore investing in thick curtains which block out all light at night could be a significant advantage in helping people to get to sleep more easily.
Other advice included avoiding snacking and drinking before bedtime, as well as not exercising in the run-up to going to
bed.
Napping after 17:00 should also be avoided, as this can disrupt the sleep cycle, while keeping a regular routine of getting up and going to bed - even during holidays and weekends - can help to train the body to reinforce its sleep-wake cycle.
Finally, the bed should be reserved for sleep only, ensuring a mental link between the bedroom and sound rest is created in the individual's mind, helping them to create a sanctuary from the day-to-day stresses of life in which they can relax and unwind.
Earlier this month, two studies were published in the US highlighting a link between poor sleep patterns and an increase in obesity.
Research from Columbia University in New York revealed that those who suffer from a lack of restful sleep tend to have cravings for unhealthy foods more often.
"The results suggest that, under restricted sleep, individuals will find unhealthy foods highly salient and rewarding, which may lead to greater consumption of those foods," commented the university's Dr Marie-Pierre St-Onge.
Posted by Michael Ewing
