Marla Ahlgrimm Offers Insight On The Importance Of Sleep

It is easy to think of sleep as the time and we do absolutely nothing. However, according to women’s health expert and author Marla Ahlgrimm, the opposite is true. When your body sleeps, it has an opportunity to regulate and repair. Keep reading for more insight into sleep and sleep deprivation. 

 

Q: What makes people go to sleep? 

 

Marla Ahlgrimm: There is an entire process involved with preparing your body for slumber. It is called your circadian rhythm. There are many moving parts to this process. During your waking hours, your brain produces adenosine, a compound believed to trigger the natural instinct to sleep. The natural rising and setting of the sun also triggers your body to want to wind down. 

 

Q: Is sleeping really that important? 

 

Marla Ahlgrimm: Absolutely. Sleep is one of the top factors in keeping your body and mind healthy. When your body is that complete rest, your brain goes to work building new pathways, which help you store, sort, and remember information. As for your physical health, if you don’t get enough sleep, you are at a higher risk of stroke, kidney disease, heart disease, obesity, and dozens of other life-altering conditions. Something else to consider is that sleep helps balance your hormones. When you’re even slightly sleep deprived, the hormone ghrelin begins to rise, which increases your desire for food, even if you are full. 

 

Q: Is it true that adults need eight hours of sleep every night? 

 

Marla Ahlgrimm: Eight hours is a great rule of thumb, but many adults can function well with seven hours. 

 

Q: What are some ways that I can have more restful sleep? 

 

Marla Ahlgrimm: Start by setting a sleep schedule. Just like with your children, make a point to go to bed at the same time each night and wake around the same time each day. It will also help if you stick to generally the same schedule through the weekends and on your off days. Have a light snack before bed, but avoid heavy meals and alcoholic drinks. If you smoke – now is a great time to quit – put the cigarettes down a few hours before bed. It can also help to spend time outside during the day and have a hot bath an hour before bed.