Sleep Tips
Just as the human body needs air, food and water, it also needs sleep, and most of us do not get enough. Most adults require seven to nine hours of sleep a night, but distractions and bad habits keep us awake. In fact, two thirds of all Americans suffer from a sleep disorder such as insomnia, daytime sleepiness, restless leg syndrome, sleep walking or sleep apnea. If left untreated, sleep deprivation can lead to serious health problems.
Through simple lifestyle changes, you can get a better night’s sleep. And Northside Hospital’s Sleep Disorders Centers – in Atlanta, Forsyth and Cherokee – can help.
- Go to bed at the same time each night and wake up at the same time each morning, including weekends.
- Exercise regularly, but finish at least three hours before bedtime.
- Eat healthy, but finish eating at least 2-3 hours before your regular bedtime.
- Avoid caffeine, nicotine and alcohol close to bedtime.
- Replace sugar and caffeine with healthy snacks such as carrots or a granola bar.
Create an environment that is conducive to sleep – make it quiet, dark and comfortable.
- Relax. Take a warm bath, drink a cup of warm milk or read a book.
- Leave worries at the bedroom door. If you’re concerned about something, make a list of the steps you’ll take to solve the problem.
Don’t nap during the day for more than 20 minutes and never after 5 p.m.
Don’t read, watch TV or do work in bed for an extended time.
For more information or if you’d like to discuss treatment options, call the Northside Hospital Sleep Disorders Center:
Atlanta (404) 851-8135
Forsyth (770) 844-3293
Cherokee (770) 720-5112
