Top 10 Benefits of Getting an Early Night!

Photo credit:

We’ve all been there – trying to decide whether to watch one more TV program or go to bed at a reasonable time. Who is still tired after staying up for the Super Bowl? (Guilty)

Usually, TV wins but there are many reasons why you should choose that extra hour’s shut eye...

1.       Keep your figure

A lack of sleep can make you put on weight by slowing down your metabolism, and we may even compensate for tiredness by eating more for energy. By getting enough sleep, we can keep down our weight, and even lose it.

2.       Reduce stress levels

Not getting enough sleep puts your body into a state of stress, which causes the production of stress hormones, and also increases your blood pressure. Higher blood pressure increases the risk of heart attacks and strokes, and the stress hormones make it even harder for you to sleep: causing a vicious cycle.

3.       Concentrate better

We’ve all had those days where we haven’t had enough sleep the night before, and we struggle to make it through our tasks for the day. If you get enough sleep, it can help you keep focused on the tasks at hand.

4.       Live longer

Studies have found that people who sleep for less than six hours a night on a regular basis, have a higher risk of dying sooner that those who sleep for seven or eight hours a night. Whether this is due to the amount of sleep, or the effect of other illnesses is not clear, but why risk it!

5.       Less likely to get ill

A lack of sleep can suppress your immune system, which leaves you vulnerable to infections. Studies have shown you are three times more likely to catch a cold if you sleep less than 6 hours, compared to sleeping 8 hours or more.

6.       Less pain

Studies have shown that if you miss out on sleep your pain threshold could be lower;nwhich means that if you get enough sleep it may actually help with any chronic pain, or acute pain from a recent injury.

7.       Lower risk of injury

You are more likely to have an accident when you are sleep-deprived, and so more likely to trip or fall off a ladder (ouch). Which means that getting enough sleep might actually keep you safe!

8.       More alert

Sleeping well means you are energized and ready for the day to come. When you wake up refreshed, you have more energy for your day, so you are more likely to get another good night’s sleep too!

9.       Better memory

While we sleep, a process called memory consolidation takes place. Your brain processes your day, making connections between events, sensory input, feelings and memories. Dreams and deep sleep are important, and getting quality sleep will help you remember and process things better.

10.   Reduce risk of depression

Sleep has an impact on the chemicals in your body, especially serotonin which affects your moods. By ensuring that you get at least 7 hours sleep you can help regulate the levels of serotonin, and prevent depression.

Tweet us @office_fruit with any home remedies for a better nights sleep (counting sheep does not...count.)