We have all heard about just how important sleep is for our bodies.  Not only is it necessary for us to function, but it also plays an important role on our weight and metabolism, our mood, our cardiovascular health, and disease .  The frightening side effects of sleep deprivation are only compounded by the fact that a many Americans are sleep deprived. According to the National Sleep Foundation (NSF), 40 million Americans suffer from some type of sleeping disorder, with 60% of adults saying that they do have sleep problems a few nights a week, if not more.

There has been a common misconception that sugar helps to fight afternoon drowsiness, which is why people turn to sweets after lunch hours. However, recent studies have shown that it is in fact protein which is more effective in fighting afternoon drowsiness. This is because protein has properties which enables stimulation in particular brain cells which helps to keep the body awake. The finding has become a breakthrough in understanding obesity as well as sleep disorders.

We have all heard about just how important sleep is not only for us physically, but for us to mentally and emotionally too.  A new Japanese study only further confirms that fact, proving that people who do not get a good night’s sleep are, on average, about twice as likely to suffer from depression down the road.

New research says not getting enough slow wave sleep (SWS) is an accurate predictor for developing high blood pressure in older men. Published in Hypertension: Journal of the American Heart Association, this study shows for the first time a link between poor quality of sleep and risk of developing high blood pressure.

Regular sound sleep of five to six hours a night could help women live longer. According to recent reports conducted on more than 450 women aged 50 to 81 sleep pattern might influence chances of survival.