How Important is Sleep?

One of the worst stressors on the body is lack of sleep. Doctors recommend between seven to nine hours of sleep per night. Insufficient sleep can be linked to and increased risk of many health issues. Certain cancers, heart disease, and diabetes.

Unfortunately, there is a disadvantage of being a woman. According to studies, women experience higher stress than men. Serotonin is needed to make melatonin, and melatonin tells you to get sleepy. Women use much more serotonin than men do under stress. Without melatonin, the brain becomes very active and that's another reason why women cannot relax and fall asleep.

What can I do?? There are a few natural ways to help sleep better.

Healthy Snacks:

• barley grass powder

• cherries

• walnuts

• lettuce

• whole grains ( avoid gluten)

Supplements to help with ZZZ'S:

• melatonin

• magnesium

• valerian root tincture or tea

Your Environment:

• convert bedroom to your yummy sanctuary: No TV, wear blue light blocking glasses, use candlelight or dimmed lights, and use dark drapes.

• go to bed by 10:00 pm

• hot baths

• read a relaxing book