Saturday 13 December 2008

~**In my Bedtime Blues**~~


In my sleepless nights I have witnessed a blurry vision . . .
I had lost my concentration,suffered from an extreme fatigue,lost control on my food intake.I had been buzzed by negative vibes ..
… and then one day I woke up to find out that I wasn’t sleeping properly.I woke up to the importance of sleeping in my daily life as mentioned in this Irish proverb : “ A good laugh and a long sleep are the best cures in the doctor’s book” ..

Why do you sleep? Is it only to experience dreams,nightmares? or Is it just to escape from the reality of life underneath your blanket?
Have you ever thought about the benefits of sleeping to your overall health and well-being?
Have you ever thought about the risks that could occur when you get less than 6 or 7 hours of sleep each night?

I have thought about it .. for me .. for you and for whoever wishes to cherish his sleeping hours. Enjoy reading the facts and spread the knowledge around you !


***~Sleeping~***



1. Keeps Your Heart Healthy
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Lack of sleep has been associated with worsening of blood pressure and cholesterol, all risk factors for heart disease and stroke. Your heart will be healthier if you get between 7 and 9 hours of sleep each night.


2. May Prevent Cancer
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People working the late shift have a higher risk for breast and colon cancer. Researchers believe this link is caused by differing levels of melatonin in people who are exposed to light at night. Light exposure reduces the level of melatonin, a hormone that both makes us sleepy and is thought to protect against cancer. Melatonin appears to suppress the growth of tumors. Be sure that your bedroom is dark to help your body produce the melatonin it needs.

3. Reduces Stress
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When your body is sleep deficient, it goes into a state of stress. The body's functions are put on high alert which causes an increase in blood pressure and a production of stress hormones. Higher blood pressure increases your risk for heart attacks and strokes. The stress hormones also, unfortunately, make it harder for you to sleep

4. Reduces Inflammation
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The increase in stress hormones raises the level of inflammation in your body, also creating more risk for heart-related conditions, as well as cancer and diabetes. Inflammation is thought to be one of the causes of the deterioration of your body as you age.


5. Makes You More Alert
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Of course, a good night's sleep makes you feel energized and alert the next day. Most importantly it puts you in a positive mood . Did you know that the laughter therapy which consists of laughing out loud as soon as you get up from bed boosts your immune system and make you feel at ease and positive all day long!


6. Bolsters Your Memory
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Researchers do not fully understand why we sleep and dream, but a process called memory consolidation occurs during sleep. While your body may be resting, your brain is busy processing your day, making connections between events, sensory input, feelings and memories. Your dreams and deep sleep are an important time for your brain to make memories and links. Getting more quality sleep will help you remember and process things better.



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7. May Help You Lose Weight
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Researchers have also found that people who sleep less than seven hours per night are more likely to be overweight or obese. It is thought that the lack of sleep impacts the balance of hormones in the body that affect appetite. The hormones ghrelin and leptin, important for the regulation of appetite, have been found to be disrupted by lack of sleep. So if you are interested in controlling or losing weight, don't forget to pay attention to getting a good night's sleep.

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8. Naps Make You Smarter
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Napping during the day is not only an effective and refreshing alternative to caffeine, it can also protect your health and make you more productive. A study of 24,000 Greek adults showed that people who napped several times a week had a lower risk for dying from heart disease. People who nap at work have much lower levels of stress. Napping also improves memory, cognitive function and mood.


9. Reduce Your Risk for Depression
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Sleep impacts many of the chemicals in your body, including serotonin. People with a deficiency in serotonin are more likely to suffer from depression. You can help to prevent depression by making sure you are getting the right amount of sleep, between 7 and 9 hours each night.


10. Helps the Body Make Repairs
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Sleep is a time for your body to repair damage caused by stress, ultraviolet rays and other harmful exposures. Your cells produce more protein while you are sleeping. These protein molecules form the building blocks for cells, allowing them to repair damage.


Have a Good Night & Sweet Dreams ''

by Dietitian Nicole Maftoum

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