How Does Sleep Affect the Heart?
There is a strong link between sleep and heart health. Getting enough quality sleep is important for maintaining a healthy heart and reducing the risk of heart disease and other serious health problems.
Here are some ways in which sleep can affect the heart:
Blood pressure: Lack of sleep or poor sleep quality has been linked to high blood pressure, which is a risk factor for heart disease.
Inflammation: Lack of sleep can increase inflammation in the body, which can contribute to the development of heart disease.
Stress: Poor sleep can increase stress, which can have negative impacts on heart health.
Weight: Lack of sleep has been linked to weight gain, which can increase the risk of heart disease.
Diabetes: Poor sleep has been linked to an increased risk of developing diabetes, which can increase the risk of heart disease.
It is generally recommended to aim for 7-9 hours of sleep per night for adults. To improve sleep quality, it may be helpful to establish a consistent sleep schedule, create a relaxing bedtime routine, avoid screens before bedtime, and create a comfortable sleep environment. If you have trouble sleeping or have concerns about your sleep, it is important to discuss these issues with a healthcare professional.