Unfortunately, yes. Many people struggle with getting a good night’s rest each night. One study reported that one in three Americans do not get enough sleep each night!

So, if rest does not come easy to you, you are not alone. However, adequate sleep is one of the most beneficial things you can do for your body.

Read on as our team at AFC Urgent Care Gastonia provides some helpful insight into this topic.

How Is My Lack of Sleep Negatively Affecting My Health?

The CDC says that adults need between seven and nine hours of sleep each night for optimal health and well being as many of our bodies’ systems function best in the resting state. In fact, sleep is good for digestion, memory and the immune system, which fights off illness.

There are some major negatives when you do not get enough sleep. We’ve listed just a few things to be aware of below.

Negative Effects of Not Getting Enough Sleep

• Memory and cognitive thinking issues
• Mood changes
• Risk of diabetes, weight gain and heart disease
• Low sex drive

How Can I Get a Better Night of Rest?

If you find yourself dealing with a lack of sleep, there are ways to improve your quality of sleep. We recommend talking to a healthcare professional if you think you may have a sleep disorder and need medical attention.

Some easy home remedies may do the trick! We’ve listed a few of them below.

Simple Home Remedies That Can Aid Sleep

• Establish a regular bedtime and wake-up time. The human body thrives on a rhythm!
• Take a warm bath before bedtime.
• Drink herbal tea like chamomile.
• Turn off screens several hours before you go to bed. Reading a book is a better before-bed option, as it helps you wind down your mind.
• Make sure your sleeping area is clear of distractions and comfortable. A good pillow and nice blankets could make a big difference.
• Talk with your doctor about supplements like melatonin or prescription sleep aids.

Our team at AFC Urgent Care Gastonia is here to help you maintain your health, and we recognize that sleep is a big part of that! If you have health or wellness concerns, reach out to our team today.