Sleep is often viewed as a luxury rather than a necessity, but its importance for overall health, particularly heart health, cannot be understated. According to Dr. Susheel Patil, director of the Sleep Medicine Program for University Hospitals, maintaining good sleep health is crucial for overall well-being.
Despite this, many Americans are sleep-deprived, with 1 in 3 adults not getting the recommended 7-9 hours of sleep per night. This lack of sleep can lead to a variety of health issues that may impact the heart, such as obesity, heart disease, and type 2 diabetes.
Research has shown that individuals who get less than 6 hours of sleep per night are more likely to gain weight, develop diabetes, and be diagnosed with heart disease compared to those who get 7-8 hours of sleep. Sleep disorders such as sleep apnea and chronic insomnia also increase the risk of heart disease, stroke, and high blood pressure.
Some cardiac centers, like Baptist Health’s Miami Cardiac & Vascular Institute, have sleep specialists on staff to educate patients on the connection between sleep, heart health, and overall well-being. Dr. Harneet Walia, director of sleep medicine and continuous improvement at the institute, emphasizes that sleep issues can have serious consequences for the heart, even if individuals are not experiencing symptoms.
Establishing a consistent bedtime and wake-up time, creating a restful bedroom environment, avoiding screens before bed, and limiting daytime naps are all recommended strategies for improving sleep quality. If sleep problems persist, individuals are encouraged to speak with their doctor.
In conclusion, prioritizing good sleep habits is essential for maintaining heart health and overall well-being. By practicing healthy sleep habits throughout life, individuals can reduce the risk of developing sleep disorders and maintain their overall health in the long term.