Most of us know how it feels to drag through the day after a poor night’s sleep — sluggish, unfocused and ready for the day to be over before noon. But a lack of sleep does more than make us tired. Over time it can have serious effects on our overall health, especially our hearts.
Sleep plays a critical role in keeping our bodies functioning properly. When we consistently fall short, the risks add up. Research shows that poor sleep is linked to high blood pressure, hypertension and type 2 diabetes, which are all major contributors to heart disease.
How Sleep Protects Your Heart
During sleep your body uses those hours to repair, regulate and reset. Your blood pressure naturally lowers, your heart rate becomes steadier and stress hormones drop. This sleep downtime gives your cardiovascular system a chance to recover from the stress of the day.
But when you don’t get enough rest, these systems don’t work as smoothly. Your body stays in a state of high alert, making your heart work harder even when you’re at rest. Over time this can raise inflammation, disrupt your metabolism and increase your risk of developing heart disease or experiencing a cardiac event.
Quality sleep also supports the everyday habits that keep your heart strong. Getting enough rest boosts your mood, improves focus and helps you make overall healthier choices.
How Much Sleep Do You Need?
When asked how much sleep the average adult should aim for each night, the doctors at the Sarah Bush Lincoln Heart Center all gave the same recommendation: at least 7 hours of sleep each night on a consistent basis. As a healthy sleep schedule is one of the easiest ways to maintain your heart and overall wellbeing long term.
Making sleep a priority isn’t just about feeling better in the morning — it’s about protecting your heart for the long run. If you’ve been struggling with sleep or noticing changes in your energy, mood or health, consider talking with your healthcare provider.
The information in this blog should not replace professional medical advice. Always consult your doctor or healthcare provider with questions about your health.
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