Debunk sleep myths for better nights! We’re all for myths when they’re in the form of ancient Greece’s deities, heroes, and mythological creatures. But modern-day myths about sleep? Those just perpetuate bad habits—which can prevent you from getting the shut-eye you need for good health. Researchers recently reviewed more than 8,000 websites that contained faulty information about sleep. Here are three harmful sleep myths that need to be dispelled once and for all!
Myth: 8 hours of sleep? Pshaw. I can get by on four or five.
Truth: Minimizing the importance of sleep can contribute to long-term sleep deprivation, and sleep deprivation usually comes with serious health consequences. In truth, most adults need 7 to 9 hours of sleep a night to function well. Set a schedule that allows for at least seven hours of sleep, and follow other good-sleep habits like getting regular exercise, limiting caffeine, and having a soothing, screen-free wind-down routine.
Myth: Snoring may annoy my partner, but it doesn’t hurt me.
Truth: Sometimes snoring is indeed harm-less. But it can also be a symptom of obstructive sleep apnea, a serious disorder in which breathing periodically stops during the night. Sleep apnea can lead to serious heart problems and other illnesses. See a doctor if your partner reports that you snore or gasp for breath, or if you regularly feel tired after a night’s sleep.
Myth: A beer or glass of wine before bed will help me sleep.
Truth: Nightcaps can make you nod off quickly, but their net effect may be a sleep pattern that’s not good. Drinking alcohol before bedtime can prevent REM sleep, which can leave you feeling groggy, and can lead to waking up in the middle of the night. You need REM to restore normal brain function, If you drink, do so earlier in the evening and in moderation (up to one drink a day for women, two for men).
http://www.clevelandclinicwellness.com
Transfiguration Parish is proud to offer “Two by Two”, a Faith in Action Care Team from Transfiguration North & South in cooperation with the Eddy Alzheimer’s Services. This team of compassionate trained volunteers from our own parish provides social support to individuals and families living with Alzheimer’s disease or other memory impairment disorders. This Care Team provides respite, friendly visits and is prepared to pick up prescription or groceries or prepare a meal if needed. For more information contact Pat Hebert at the number listed above.