Healthy Tips by Medical Center Pharmacy

Your job, your home, your spouse, your kids, supper, laundry, dishes... the list could go on and on. We all live such busy lives and there never seems to be enough daylight to get everything finished and in order. Unfortunately, this business can interrupt our sleep. Although all of the factors that affect sleep patterns cannot be eliminated, there are some things you can do to improve your sleep.

1) Go to bed at the same time every night, even on weekends. Sticking to a schedule helps to reinforce your body’s sleep-wake cycle.

2) Don’t eat or drink large amounts before bedtime. This often causes indigestion, heartburn, or frequent trips to the bathroom during the night.

3) Avoid alcohol, caffeine, and nicotine in the evenings. These are stimulants that can keep you awake. Although alcohol can cause drowsiness, it actually disrupts sleep.

4) Don’t take naps during the day. Daytime sleep steals from the need for regular night time sleep.

5) Go to bed when you are tired and turn out the lights.

6) Create a relaxing bedtime routine. Again, a proper routine will indicate to your body that it is time for sleep.

7) Only use sleeping pills as a last resort. If you do require medication, it is best to try non-habit forming options first.