From the category archives:

sleep

The Effect of Poor Sleep Quality on Blood Pressure

by Wendy on June 16, 2009

Blood pressure and SleepSleep disturbances, weight gain and creeping blood pressure are common complaints of women in mid-life.  I’ve learned through experience and research that there’s  a connection between sleep deprivation and weight gain as well as between weight gain and high blood pressure. Now, a new study, published just last week, is making a direct connection between sleep duration and blood pressure.  It concluded that “early middle-aged adults who sleep fewer hours appear more likely to have high blood pressure and to experience adverse changes in blood pressure over time.” [click to continue...]

{ 1 comment }

A New Study Explains the Connection Between Insomnia and Weight Gain

by Wendy on April 20, 2009

The connection between insomnia and weight gain, both common complaints of mid-life women, has been well established, but a new study by UCLA researchers has revealed why.

The culprits are two hormones; ghrelin, often referred to as the “hunger hormone” because it stimulates appetite and increases before meals; and leptin, which tells the body when it is hungry and when it is full.  Sleep loss apparently leads to increased ghrelin and decreased leptin -  a “double-whammy” that stimulates appetite.

By the way, a year ago I wrote about a Canadian research study that concluded that too much sleep can cause weight gain.  I guess you just have to figure out how much shut-eye is right for you.

{ 0 comments }

A Study Explores The Connection Between Sleep and Risk of Stroke

by Wendy on October 18, 2008

 woman sleeping

When you’re having trouble sleeping – as most women in menopause are – it’s hard to believe that too much sleep can cause problems.  I’d settle for a little too much sleep anytime. But new research suggests that too much shut-eye can raise your risk of stroke… and too little makes you vulnerable too. Where’s the sweet spot? [click to continue...]

{ 2 comments }