Why is Sleep So Important?

We constantly hear that we need to make sure we get enough sleep, but why? Listed here are five reasons why you need to get to bed on time and give your body the rest that it wants and needs.

1. Healthier Heart

Sleep allows your heart and blood vessels to rest a bit as well. While you sleep your blood pressure goes down, so not as much pressure is being put on your heart and blood vessels. Getting enough sleep can lower your risk for heart diseases such as a stroke or a heart attack.

2. Immune System

Getting enough sleep can have a positive impact on your immune system. It helps your immune cells to continue to work properly and quickly to fight off bacteria and infections. With little sleep your body is more susceptible to getting sick when exposed to a virus and has a longer recovery time.

3. Balances Our Appetites

Sleep will help regulate two hormones in our bodies called, leptin and ghrelin. These hormones make us feel full or hungry. When we are tired our hormones are not in order and ghrelin tends to increase, which causes people to eat more. A well kept sleep schedule will allow your body to keep your hormones in check, and in turn keep your appetite in check.

4. Better Concentration

Not getting enough sleep makes it hard to focus, pay attention, and understand what is going on around you. This is not only a safety hazard because people are less alert but it is hard to perform your best in the weight room if you can not concentrate and complete a task.

5. Increase in Energy & Mood Booster

Those that are deprived of sleep tend to be more negative, frustrated, angry, and irritable opposed to those that get enough sleep. Not getting enough sleep has been linked to depression and anxiety in many studies. Getting enough sleep not only increases your mood but also restores brain energy to replenish your energy levels!

So what are you waiting for? Put your phone down at night and get some sleep!