In a day and age when medications are more extensive and accepted than ever, one medicine we all have at home is as powerful as any: sleep! It turns out that sleep is one of the best medicines out there for wellness. Sleep affects all aspects of our health, essential to all of our body’s processes. A lack of sleep can contribute to a number of different harmful health consequences such as hypertension, diabetes, heart attack, stroke, obesity and depression. Here are 4 benefits of sleep:
1. Improved Mental Clarity
Sleep is linked to a variety of brain functions, including memory, cognition and performance. Researchers found that a disruption in sleep negatively impacts these areas in a 2017 study, making it more difficult to process and form memories, impeding cognitive function and hurting our productivity at work, school and other settings. When we sleep our brains make connections that are vital in helping us learn new information and form memories. Better sleep can lead to improved problem-solving and decision-making skills.
2. Weight Control
We know that those who sleep less are at a higher risk of weight gain and a higher body mass index. When we sleep our body produces leptin, an appetite suppressing hormone, while reducing ghrelin, an appetite stimulant. A lack of sleep causes decreased production of leptin and increased production of ghrelin which can cause us to have a greater sense of hunger. Sleep-deprived individuals tend to have a bigger appetite and consume more calories than folks who regularly get a good night’s sleep.
3. Healthier Heart
Sleep is a chance for our heart and vascular system to rest. During sleep, our heart rate slows, blood pressure naturally decreases and hormones that keep our heart and blood vessels healthy are released. A shortage of these hormones from sleep deprivation is associated with high blood pressure, suboptimal heart function and over time, heart disease. Not getting enough sleep keeps blood pressure elevated for an extended period, increasing the risk of heart disease, heart attack and heart failure.
4. Supports Healthy Immune System
The benefits of sleep are endless, but particularly useful is the effect on the immune system. There’s a reason why extra sleep is recommended when battling illnesses such as colds! Sleep regulates the immune system by helping the body repair, regenerate and recover. The body produces growth hormones responsible for repairing tissues and cells during sleep while also producing cytokines that fight infections, helping to strengthen the immune system. Insufficient sleep can make us more susceptible to infections such as the common cold.
Supplements For Improved Sleep
If you’re struggling to get shut eye, you can reap these benefits of sleep with the help of supplements from Waters Wellness! In addition to melatonin, you’ll find a number of products designed to help improve sleep quality and duration.
Sleep + helps you fall asleep faster, stay asleep longer and wake up feeling refreshed and ready to attack the day! This blend of melatonin, l-theanine and chamomile comes in an easy-to-use dissolvable disc form that you simply drop into your favorite hot or cold beverage.
Daily Pure Pack - Healthy Sleep is another go-to supplement that will help you catch some zzzs! It contains a Best-Rest Formula made of melatonin, l-theanine, lemon balm, chamomile and other ingredients that promote sleep, plus magnesium for maximum relaxation.
The benefits of sleep impact all areas of our health! At Waters Wellness, we’re here to help on your wellness journey with services in a number of different categories that prioritize your health!
