Sleep – It does your Body Good!

One of the most overlooked, yet most important ways to stay healthy, is to ensure that you are getting the sleep that your body needs. This is sometimes more easily said than done, especially for those who perform shiftwork. So, read on for some tips!

Lack of sleep can lead to both short and long-term consequences for your health. We can likely all relate to the feelings of irritability, fatigue and difficulty concentrating after missing a night or two of sleep. However, if sleep deprivation continues over the long-term it increases the risk of more serious health problems such as obesity, diabetes, a weakened immune system, high blood pressure and depression.

Here are some tips to establish good sleeping habits:

• Create a comfortable sleep environment


• Reduce caffeine consumption and avoid alcohol prior to bedtime


• Get regular exercise and enjoy a healthy diet


• Avoid heavy meals right before bedtime


• Try relaxation techniques like yoga before bed


• Try to maintain a consistent bed and wake time whenever possible.

Approximately 25% of employees in Canada perform shiftwork. Here are some additional things to consider if you or someone you know is one of them:

• Try to get more sleep when possible, a quick 30 minute nap will increase your total amount of sleep and help improve your health.


• Consider bringing your lunch to work as food choices tend to be less healthy at night


• Try to get some exercise in during your breaks, a quick walk around the building will do the trick.


• Ask your family for their support by making sure you get the sleep you need when you are home.

Regardless of your schedule, if you are struggling to sleep, you can also talk to your health care provider about other options. Most importantly, realize that you cannot adequately care for others until you have cared for yourself – and that means getting enough sleep. Good night……….