Muffin Top-Less

“Sleep is a significant health concern and just as important as nutrition, exercise and stress management. While we sleep at night, we heal and recuperate from the wear and tear of our day. Unfortunately, more and more people find it necessary to cut back on their sleep. The consequences for their health and quality of life can be devastating. In fact, sleep deprivation has become such a widespread phenomenon, that some states have enacted legislation that defines “fatigued driving” in similar terms to drunk driving. Lack of sleep is not only a potential health hazard; it affects the safety of everyone on the road and at the work place.

Clinical studies have shown that sleep deprivation can be a contributing factor to a number of lifestyle-related illnesses – among them obesity, diabetes, hypertension and heart disease. Patients with persistent sleep deficits have routinely shown alterations in their metabolism, inhibiting their ability to manage glucose levels by making their cells increasingly insulin resistant.

Sleeplessness can lead to imbalances in the release of stress hormones, such as cortisol. Potential consequences are weakening of the immune system, risk of a variety of chronic illnesses as well as psychological effects, such as memory loss, mood swings and depression. Sleep deprivation may also have a significant impact on one’s life expectancy.” - Timi Gustafson RD

Avoid exercising vigorously before bed.. also avoid caffeine and other stimulants. Powering down electronics and keeping the room dark and quiet are other ways to sizzle down before bed.