Most people know that driving while sleep-deprived isn’t a good idea, although they may admit to doing it at some time or another. The risks associated with drowsy driving may not even be something that crosses your mind, but it’s important to know that operating any kind of vehicle while drowsy is not only risky — it can be fatal.
As many pets owners can attest to, our pets have a way of burrowing their way into our hearts and becoming a treasured part of our daily lives. A 2015 Harris poll revealed that 95% of pet owners consider their pet to be a full-fledged member of the family (which is more than what some people can say about their relatives!).
As you’re likely already aware, obesity is, quite literally, a growing epidemic in the United States. You’ve heard it all before: more sedentary lifestyles, oversized food proportions and lack of access to healthy foods contribute to a nation-wide public health problem.
Our genes have a tremendous influence on many aspects of our lives, affecting everything from the color of our hair to our personalities. But have you ever thought about the fact that genes can play a role in your sleep, too?
As we approach the end of the first month of the new year, many of us are still thinking about (and, if we’re lucky, practicing) our New Year’s resolutions. Getting healthier is always a top goal for many when a new year rolls around. For you, this may mean eating healthier and working out more consistently (both good things!). But did you know that when combined, healthy diet and exercise habits can improve your sleep, too?
It’s January, and you, like many, have committed to being healthier in 2018. Your alarm goes off in the morning, you’re tired, and immediately there is a battle inside your head. Should you stay in bed and catch up on sleep, or push your way through your morning workout? The last thing you want to do is skip out on workouts already!
This is a conundrum faced by many people every day. When time is limited, which wellness activity should take priority: sleep or exercise?
It’s well-recognized in medical circles that obstructive sleep apnea and type 2 diabetes are connected. In fact, one study published in Family Medicine found that people with type 2 diabetes have a nearly 50 percent chance of also having the sleep disorder.
Feeling a little tired throughout the day? Often, nothing sounds better than a nice, long nap! It’s easy, though, to listen to popular opinions about napping (like that a midday nap will make it more difficult for you to fall asleep at night) and avoid them all together. You may have even experienced some of the more confusing aspects of napping yourself: Why do you sometimes wake up more tired than before you went to sleep – and then other times wake up entirely rested and refreshed?
According to a study published in the American Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, air pollution may increase the risk factor of sleep-disordered breathing. It is important to consider air quality both indoors and outdoors when it comes to treatments that may help those with sleep apnea. Turns out, certain indoor plants may provide a simple way to surround yourself with cleaner air and breathe easier.
When you’re feeling sluggish, the first thought is often “Looks like I need to go to bed earlier tonight.” And while more sleep is always a good thing, a study recently published by the University of Sydney challenges the assumption that the amount of hours spent asleep is the sole determiner in how rested you feel.