THE One Simple Change to Get Healthier and Lose Weight!

Could one simple change lead to weight loss and improve health?  The answer is yes, and if your not sure what that habit is, you may want to sleep on it.  Sleep is probably the most underrated weight loss tool! In fact, numerous studies have shown that in both kids and adults, less than 7 hours of sleep causes weight gain as well as dangerous inflammation in the body and can lead to heart disease, memory problems, depression and aging!  It is my theory that the 'freshman 15' is as likely due to student's poor sleep habits as it is to cafeteria food.  To compound the problem, artificial light such as light bulbs, computer screens and tv's convince our brains that it isn't time for sleep when the sun goes down.  So, research suggests that hitting the hay early can lead to reduced cholesterol, body fat and rates of depression!  One simple change in your lifestyle can add years to your life and life to your years.  It amazes my that people will spend thousands of dollars for 'extras' for cars they may spend an hour a day in but buy a cheap mattress to spend a third of their day in!  I can't say I wasn't guilty of this myself, but today I shelled out a few extra bucks for a prescription-only mattress, proven in a University of Louisville study to reduce movement during sleep by 90%!  The way I see is, if I am moving 90% less, I am going to feel 90% better in the morning.  Keep posted to hear if that is the case.  Also, I will be sure to blog about prescription mattresses and how they are the only way to sleep on a truly poison-free mattress!  In the mean time, work on setting a consistent bedtime and bedtime ritual.  It should not include tv, or computer use and should limit flourescent light exposure.  Start by trying to add an hour of sleep to what you are currently getting and see how good you feel.  Here are some tips to get started:
Set consistent sleep and wake schedules and stick to them.
Take a hot shower before bed, sleep is associated with a drop in body temp that getting out of a hot shower can mimic.
Get the TV out of the bedroom!
Make your bedroom darker, heavier blinds or less background light.
Keep the bedroom cool.
Try progressive relaxation- starting at your toes, contract your muscles for a few second and them focus on letting that muscle group totally relax, work your way up your body.

Good Luck and Goodnight,
DietDoc