It is well known that sleep, or lack of it, can compromise our health and wellbeing. Work-life balance, environmental factors, what we eat and drink and the time of day we consume it are the usual culprits when it comes to sleep deprivation. To find a solution it essential establish the cause, so with this in mind we have compiled a short list of factors…
1. Stress
Our busy modern lifestyles can contribute to an overstimulated body and mind. Working late on an evening is sometimes unavoidable, however, this should be acknowledged as poor preparation for a good night’s rest. Once asleep, stresses from our day can wake us is the early hours, and once awake, going back to sleep can prove rather difficult. It is widely understood that stress is one of the most common contributors to sleep deprivation. Try to keep a healthy work-life balance.
2. Digestion
Digesting a heavy meal too close to bedtime can play havoc on our sleeping pattern. By doing so, our body is distracted from taking care of its primary night time function of recovery and repair. It is widely understood that the last meal of the day should be consumed no less than two hours before bedtime, however, if you do happen to infringe upon this, a digestive food supplement can help to counter the negative effects.
3. Noise and light
In the Nordics, our summer presents us with long periods of daylight. Light nights and early mornings, where the sun never quite turns in, can make it difficult to both fall asleep and stay asleep. Blackout curtains may just be the best investment you make! If possible, also try to eliminate any disturbing sources of noise and blue light emitted by mobile devices and TV’s. Try to create an environment that encourages an optimal rest state.
4. Nutritional deficiencies
Many people have a magnesium deficiency, which can be caused by chronic stress or a poor diet. Magnesium is a mineral that relaxes the nervous system, so it is the ideal tonic to take it in the evening due to its sleep-inducing properties. Our Night Complex is formulated to improve your sleep. Containing stomach-friendly magnesium bisglycinate, the formulation absorbs quickly, helping body and mind to wind down at the time of day you need it.
5. Late-night sports
Working out is great for your health and well-being, but partaking in sport or exercise too late in the evening can make falling asleep rather difficult. This is because it takes time for your body and mind to shift from a state of alert to a relaxation state.
6. Caffeine
It takes as long as 5-7 hours for caffeine to leave your system. For some individuals, the mornings cup of coffee has enough caffeine in it to keep them from rest in the evening. Tea, cola beverages, chocolate and certain flu medications typically all contain caffeine. Take a look at your daily caffeine intake and considering reducing it.
7. Oops – did a night cap just pass you lips?
A night cap does in fact not help you sleep better. Alcohol may help you to fall asleep more easily, but you will most likely not get the much-needed recovery from your sleep. Excessive use of alcohol is often related to sleep disorders.
Image credit: Unsplash / Maddi Bazzocco