Great Sleep Equals Better Health and Weight Loss
by Dr. Amit Patel DC – Ipswich Spine Clinic, Suffolk
We look forward to serving you! Call – 01473 232 002
If you have trouble getting quality sleep, rest assured you’re not alone. Surveys reveal that 40–60% of adults feel they don’t sleep as well as they should. Sleep issues are often caused by stress—from money, family, work, aches and pains, general discomfort, poor pillows or mattresses, or a variety of other factors.
You may have also heard that less sleep can contribute to weight gain, adding another reason to feel stressed. Let’s explore how improving your sleep can promote better health and support weight loss.
Quality Assured Sleep
Good-quality sleep is crucial for maintaining health. It allows your body to recharge and regenerate and gives your mind the rest it needs to stay focused during the day.
Our body relies on delicate balances, many regulated by hormones. One such balance is hunger.
What Studies Have Found
According to Gregory B. Dodell, MD, an endocrinologist at St. Luke’s and Roosevelt Hospitals, two hormones—ghrelin, which stimulates hunger, and leptin, which signals fullness—play a key role. Lack of sleep increases ghrelin and decreases leptin, causing stronger cravings for high-calorie, high-salt foods. Over time, this increases the risk of becoming overweight or obese.
Sleep Time Solutions
Many people rely on sleeping pills, but research shows they do not provide the deep restorative sleep the body needs. Doctors of chiropractic are trained to support natural wellness and can offer advice to help you enjoy naturally induced, refreshing sleep.
Here are a few tips for better sleep:
- Exercise regularly, preferably in the morning. Allow 2–3 hours between finishing exercise and going to bed.
- Limit caffeine later in the day, including coffee, tea, and sodas. Balance intake with water.
- Hydrate wisely at night—drink room-temperature water, not cold.
- Eat earlier, ideally before 6 p.m., so digestion doesn’t interfere with sleep.
- Consistent schedule: go to bed and wake up at the same time daily.
- Sleep environment: keep your bedroom cool and dark. Even minimal light can affect hormone production.
Choosing the Right Mattress and Pillow
- Mattress support should be uniform from head to toe, maintaining natural spinal alignment. Adjust firmness with boards or toppers as needed. Flip or rotate your mattress every few months to prevent indentations.
- Pillow alignment is crucial. It should keep your cervical spine aligned with your thoracic and lumbar spine. Foam pillows work well if they provide consistent support without compressing under weight. Avoid pillows that require arm support or folding to achieve proper height.
All Weighed Up
Exercise, diet, and quality sleep all contribute to overall health. Regular, restorative sleep helps maintain balance, supports weight management, and promotes well-being.
Call today! Our practice staff is ready to help you achieve better sleep and optimal health.
For Your Health,
Dr. Amit Patel DC
An Optimal Spine Equals Optimal Health
Ipswich Spine Clinic
Neale Chambers, 6-8 Neale Street
Ipswich, Suffolk, IP1 3JB
Phone: 01473 232 002