Sleeping Your Way to Better Health: How 7-8 Hours of Quality Sleep Can Boost Your Brain, Improve Digestion and Reduce Stress

Aiming for 7-8 hours of sleep per day is crucial for maintaining a healthy sleep-wake cycle, says Dr. Hoang Quyet Tien from Tam Anh General Hospital in Ho Chi Minh City. However, regularly sleeping in on holidays or weekends can disrupt the body’s circadian rhythm and lead to sleep disorders like insomnia and sleep apnea. Irregular sleep patterns can also affect stress hormone levels and cognitive function, leading to feelings of restlessness and reduced thinking ability.

Chronic sleep issues or insomnia can be associated with various health problems such as mental disorders, neurodegenerative diseases, and a higher risk of conditions like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease. Social jet lag syndrome, which results from discrepancies between sleep patterns on holidays and normal days, can negatively impact intestinal health and digestion.

To promote overall well-being, individuals should develop healthy sleep habits by incorporating physical activity and outdoor time into their daily routine. Natural supplements like blueberry extract and ginkgo biloba can also support brain health and improve sleep quality. If you are experiencing chronic sleep issues or insomnia, it is essential to seek medical evaluation and treatment to address underlying sleep disorders that may be affecting your overall health and well-being.