Sleep is very important for a person to stay health. Not getting enough can increase the risk of serious health problems such as obesity, heart disease, and diabetes. It’s recommended a person gets eight hours of good quality sleep a night, but during the winter months this can prove tricky. Temperatures tend to be at their lowest in the early hours of the morning during winter, causing an early wake-up for many people.
So what can you do to help you achieve a disruption-free night’s sleep?
Eating a handful of almonds may help boost sleep quality.
This is because almonds, along with several other types of nuts, are a source of the sleep-regulating hormone melatonin.
A study titled ‘Dietary Sources and Bioactivities of Melatonin’, came to this finding.
The popular snacking nut is also an excellent source of magnesium, providing 19 per cent of your daily needs in only one ounce.
Consuming adequate amounts of magnesium may help improve sleep quality – especially for those who have insomnia.
It advises: “Wear night clothes such as pyjamas or a large T-shirt to keep you warm.
“Natural fibres such as wool, cotton or silk will keep you warmer than synthetic materials.
“Get rid of icy toes by putting on a pair of super soft bed socks. The extra layer under the covers can help improve circulation in your extremities, which can help you fell asleep more quickly.
“Have a warm (not hot) bath just before you go to bed. This will warm you up and will also help to make you sleepy.
“Try to take some exercise, not too close to bedtime, which will get the circulation going an help to keep the body warm.”