Blood Sugar Balance & Sleep
by
Yawn!
So here we are at my 3rd tip for managing your blood sugar and that has to do with getting enough shut-eye.
Did you know that we spend about one-third of every day of our life sleeping? At least we should.
Tip #3: Get enough sleep
What’s so important about getting good sleep?
Good sleep is vital for good health. Sleep deprivation can lead to many health issues:
- It can raise the stress hormone cortisol which can cause weight gain, blood sugar imbalance, heart attacks, depression, and lowered immunity
- It raises blood pressure which can lead to cardiovascular disease and stroke
- It raises the hunger hormone ghrelin which increases food cravings and throws off blood sugar
- Learning how to improve your sleep is not just a luxury – it’s a necessity!
How do you get better sleep?
Follow these 7 tips and rest assured (pun intended) that you will feel more rejuvenated and energized than you even imagined:
- Practice regular sleep rhythms by going to bed and waking up around the same time each day.
- Create total quiet and darkness in your bedroom.
- Avoid caffeine or reduce your intake after 12pm as it affects your sleep.
- Get regular exposure to daylight for at least 20 minutes a day because the sunlight triggers your brain to release melatonin, which is vital for healthy sleep.
- If you struggle with frequent nighttime wakening, eating a small balanced snack before bed that contains protein, fat and carbohydrates — this will fill up your liver’s glycogen stores so your blood sugar remains stable all night — try some cheese and grapes, or orange juice with collagen and a dash of salt.
- Write down your worried thoughts before bedtime so you can free your mind and drop into a deep and restful sleep.
- Take a hot epsom salt and aromatherapy bath which raises your body temperature, helping you to doze off more easily.
What to do now?
In my nutrition practice, I help clients implement these 7 tips and more so they can make the most of their sleep – and their health.
Click here now to schedule a time to talk with me today if you need the support and accountability to help you follow through like never before.
Until then, sleep tight!