Is there a link between a good night's rest and heart disease?
It is 2022 and we all know the importance of taking care of our heart by eating right and exercising regularly to lead healthier lives. However, eating the right foods and getting enough exercise is just the tip of the iceberg. Holistic health experts believe that all our bodily functions contribute to a healthy body.
But did you know that a good night's rest is equally important for your well-being? A study recently reported that a good night's sleep could reduce cardiovascular risk by over 70%. This means that the better we sleep, the lower our heart risk is.
Let's find out how sleep impacts our heart health
Sleep deprivation is directly associated with inflammation and heart disease
When cholesterol accumulates in your blood vessels as plaque, it is covered by a fibrous cap. Blood flow erodes this cap, causing a pothole-like effect that signals white blood cells to clot. However, this can lead to a heart attack or stroke. A study found that circulating levels of MicroRNAs miR-125a, miR-126 and miR-146a were significantly lower in those not getting enough sleep. Altered circulating profiles of these vascular-related microRNAs have been linked to increased cardiovascular disease events.
Sleep deprivation is directly linked to pulmonary hypertension
A study by University Hospitals Ohio noted that nearly 80% of those suffering from pulmonary hypertension also suffer from Sleep Apnea. This makes sleep disorders a primary cause for those suffering from hypertension.
Lack of sleep can cause unwanted dietary changes
A change in your diet impacts your heart health. If you're sleepy, you may want to load up on sugars, carbs and caffeine to keep you up and running. However, this can lead to obesity, which affects your heart health.
Sleeplessness increases stress and anxiety
Increased levels of stress and anxiety have long been associated with heart health. If you do not sleep enough, the resulting elevation in anxiety and stress can negatively impact your heart health.
Disrupted sleep leads to an overall decline in health
Those with sleep disorders can easily be at risk of developing hypertension, type II diabetes, depression, anxiety, and memory problems. All these factors reduce your quality of life, directly impacting heart health.
How much sleep do I need to keep my heart healthy?
Sleep is critical to good health and also helps you function normally throughout the day. Experts recommend that you get at least 8 hours of sleep each night. This helps you stay energetic, happy and open to physical activity, which is essential for good heart health.
How do I know if I have a sleep disorder?
The best way to find out is to get a sleep study. A sleep study is a non-invasive test in which doctors and sleep technicians evaluate every aspect of your body, including blood pressure, breathing rate, oxygen saturation, limb movement, brain activity and more. This test helps diagnose if you suffer from a sleep disorder such as sleep apnea, narcolepsy, insomnia or restless leg syndrome.
What can I do to sleep better?
A lot. Here are some pointers to help you get all the restful sleep you need:
Stick to a sleep schedule. Try to go to bed at the same time every night and wake up at the same time every day, even on weekends.
Get enough natural light. Wake up early so you can talk a walk before it gets too warm.
Do not exercise before bedtime. Exercising around bedtime can disrupt your sleeping pattern.
Avoid stimulants before bedtime. Alcohol, coffee, tea and sugary foods keep you from sleeping. Avoid consuming these at least 2 hours before you go to bed.
Creative an environment that is conducive for sleep. Draw your curtains and ensure that you have a quiet, dark room that helps you fall asleep.
Stick to a sleep schedule. Try to go to bed at the same time every night and wake up at the same time every day, even on weekends.
Get enough natural light. Wake up early so you can talk a walk before it gets too warm.
Do not exercise before bedtime. Exercising around bedtime can disrupt your sleeping pattern.
Avoid stimulants before bedtime. Alcohol, coffee, tea and sugary foods keep you from sleeping. Avoid consuming these at least 2 hours before you go to bed.
Creative an environment that is conducive for sleep. Draw your curtains and ensure that you have a quiet, dark room that helps you fall asleep.
What can I do if I am diagnosed with sleep apnea?
The good thing about a sleep apnea diagnosis is that the disease can be addressed using a non-invasive, drug-free therapy called CPAP. CPAP, or constant positive airway pressure therapy, prevents your airways from collapsing during sleep, helping you get all the restful sleep your body needs to keep your heart fighting-fit.How can Sanrai help me in getting enough sleep?
Sanrai is committed to your good health. Our five-point solution is designed to help you sleep better and lead a healthier, happier life. Sanrai's five-point solution includes:
Early screening of sleep disorders
Accurate diagnostics ensure that you get the proper treatment
Device-based therapeutic solutions to ensure lasting relief
Better outcome management through lifestyle changes and therapy
24x7 support to ensure continued relief
Early screening of sleep disorders
Accurate diagnostics ensure that you get the proper treatment
Device-based therapeutic solutions to ensure lasting relief
Better outcome management through lifestyle changes and therapy
24x7 support to ensure continued relief
Final thoughts
A healthy heart is essential for a long, happy, healthy life. Keeping your heart-fighting fit is your primary responsibility. Ensuring that you get a good night's rest goes a long way in ensuring heart health and gives you a chance to live your life to the fullest. So take care, sleep well and stay happy!
A healthy heart is essential for a long, happy, healthy life. Keeping your heart-fighting fit is your primary responsibility. Ensuring that you get a good night's rest goes a long way in ensuring heart health and gives you a chance to live your life to the fullest. So take care, sleep well and stay happy!
