Covering Your Health: Sleep Cycle Science

(KADN) — May is Better Sleep Month. Knowing the importance of sleep is critical. But how well do we know the science of our sleep?

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(KADN) — May is Better Sleep Month. The importance of a good work-life balance begins with a healthy sleep cycle.

I have a little quiz.

No. 1. The human body requires seven to eight hours of sleep. This is true.

Otherwise, you are only learning to adapt to chronic fatigue, and chronic fatigue leads to decreased judgment, memory, focus, increased mental health issues, and possibly an increased risk of dementia.

No 2. Alcohol will help you fall asleep. This is true.

But, it disrupts your overall sleep cycle. In fact, you spend less time at Stage 3, which is your restful sleep. So, while you fall asleep faster, it’s poor sleep quality.

No 3. Warmer temperatures are better for sleep. This is false.

It turns out the optimal temperature is 65° to 68°. We think a warmer room interferes with Stage 2, when your body temperature drops, and it’s all about moving normally through this sleep cycle.

No. 4. Men and women have the same rates of insomnia. This is false.

Women have 40% more trouble falling asleep and staying asleep. Experts blame higher hormonal fluctuations in women, and women are also less likely to be tested for problems, like sleep apnea.

No. 5. And I saved the best for last. Each year, you eat three spiders in your sleep. This is false.

It is a complete urban myth, although I admit it’s a good one!

Spider experts say the last place a spider would go is warm hot breath moving in and out.

So, those are some fun facts for Better Sleep Month.

Author: Health Watch Minute

Health Watch Minute Provides the latest health information, from around the globe.