You can easily feel like an expert on sleep. We spend so much of our time sleeping.
This false confidence can cause us to believe that sleep is not as it seems.
These misconceptions can lead us to make bad decisions that impact our sleep quality. Our overall health is affected by sleep, so we need to make informed decisions.
What is the ideal amount of sleep?
Some people say that they can function well on just 5 or 6 hour sleep.
This belief may lead to serious health problems such as:
Weight gain and Obesity
diabetes
hypertension
heart disease
stroke
depression
Immune dysfunction
chronic pain
impaired performance
cognitive errors
Accidents and injuries
Although it may feel as if the effects of sleep restriction have plateaued, objective measures show that health and performance outcomes continue to worsen.
For adults, the recommended sleep duration is 7 to 8 hour per night.
Some people claim that sleeping with your eyes shut is as good as lying in bed, but the evidence shows otherwise.
When we sleep , our brain, endocrine and cardiovascular functions, as well as metabolic functions, are markedly different.
How Do You Fall Asleep?
It is not good to fall asleep “anytime and anywhere”. This indicates chronic sleep deprivation, which could be due to undiagnosed obstructive apnea.
People who are having difficulty falling asleep have a common belief that they should stay in bed and try again. They might also turn on their TV or phone.
It is better to get out of bed and take a walk, avoiding lights and computer screens. Only return to bed when you are tired.
Exercise in the final hours before going to bed can interfere with sleep for some people. It can still have a relaxing and calming effect that helps you to fall asleep.
It’s not a good idea to eat a snack before bed, especially if your stomach is prone to acid reflux or heartburn. While your stomach is working to digest the food you just ate, your horizontal position allows stomach acids to easily splash into your throat and cause discomfort.
Temperature in your bedroom can affect the quality of sleep you get and how long you stay asleep. Even though you may think that sleeping in a warm or hot environment is better, it can actually reduce the quality of your sleep. Cooler temperatures, between 65-70 degrees Fahrenheit, is ideal.
Here are some of the most common myths about sleep. Do you believe in other myths about sleep? Ask yourself if they are accurate. You can only make good decisions for your health if you have the right information.
