Here’s a quick overview of what we’ll cover in this blog:
- What defines good sleep and how to achieve it
- How sleep quality affects longevity
A lot of people don’t get quality sleep, and at least a third of Americans don’t get the quality sleep they need on a regular basis. There are many things that affect our sleep quality, from living busy lives to medical conditions like insomnia. Whatever the reason, not getting quality sleep can have a significant impact on your health, including your longevity.
So how do you get quality sleep? Rest easy: we’ve got the answers. We’ll help you understand what good sleep looks like and how to achieve it.
What defines “quality” sleep?
While sleep looks different for everyone, quality sleep usually involves three key factors:
- Getting enough sleep at night – Most adults need between 7 and 9 hours of sleep each night. This duration also helps reduce carbohydrate cravings that can result from lack of energy.
- Getting uninterrupted sleep – When we sleep, we move through several sleep cycles, each of which plays an important role in keeping us healthy. Interrupted sleep affects these cycles, which can also impact things like cognitive functioning.
- Sticking to a regular sleep schedule – This can help your body’s natural circadian rhythms, making it easier to fall asleep at night and wake up feeling rested.
What’s the connection between sleep & longevity?
Have you ever stopped to wonder why exactly we need to sleep? Sure, we feel tired and sleep can help address that feeling. But why is it so biologically necessary? Afterall, it seems counterintuitive from an evolutionary perspective.
The truth is, there are various health benefits to sleep, all of which can improve our longevity. Here are just three ways:
- DNA repair
Some experts point to DNA repair as a crucial reason we need to sleep. DNA damage happens naturally, but some research suggests that neurons (important brain cells) require sleep to fix some of their DNA damage. Neurons can’t be replaced either, so keeping them healthy is vital. - Improved lipid profiles
Some research also shows that regular sleep patterns and “slow wave sleep” can contribute to improved lipid profiles. That means higher HDL-cholesterol (the good stuff), and lower triglyceride levels. Improved lipid profiles can reduce the risk of conditions like heart disease, which are one of the leading preventable causes of death. - Weight management
Sleep plays a huge role in maintaining an optimal weight. A lack of sleep leads to poor eating decisions, hormone changes, and has a negative impact on your metabolism.
How can I get better sleep?
Getting quality sleep can seem like a challenge some days. We’ve got tips that can help you start sleeping better today:
- Keep a regular bedtime and wake time – This gets your body used to a consistent schedule, helping you fall asleep easier and get the amount of sleep you need at night.
- Avoid blue light close to bedtime – Digital devices like LED TVs and smartphones produce blue light, which can prevent the body’s production of melatonin, a chemical that helps us feel sleepy.
- Try shifting your body’s temperature before bed – This can be as easy as taking a hot shower followed by a cold shower. This helps improve blood flow and calm your body for sleep.
How can AgelessRx help?
We offer prescriptions that can help support your body’s natural processes to improve your quality of sleep, such as NAD+ and LDN.
Want to learn more about your sleep habits? Take our free online assessment and get personalized strategies to help you work towards restful nights for years to come!
Note: The above statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.