Impact of Sleep on Cholesterol Levels
The purpose of sleep is to help our bodies relax and rejuvenate. It is when hormones are released to help our cells and body repair after a stressful day. As per a study, people of Oklahoma suffering from insomnia had higher levels of triglycerides and significantly lower levels of good cholesterol. This intensifies the need for effective sleep apnea treatments in today’s world.
On the contrary, people who sleep at least eight hours per night have higher levels of good cholesterol.
But how does sleep affect your cholesterol levels?
If you do not get sufficient sleep, the essential hormones of your body start getting out of balance. This leads to the production of the stress hormone (Cortisol) in large amounts as well as Ghrelin (an appetite-inducing hormone).
This also minimizes the production of Leptin which is responsible for regulating your body weight.
This imbalance in hormone levels tends to disturb your cholesterol balance.
Poor sleep quality is equally responsible for increasing your cholesterol levels. Sleep apnea leads to sudden breathing pauses and starts at nighttime. This causes an increase in triglyceride and HDL levels and gives rise to obesity.
Lack of Sleep
According to the specialists of sleep apnea treatment residing in Oklahoma, sleep deprivation is always going to spike your cholesterol levels.
A study shows that women who slept less than six hours had lower HDL levels whereas men who used to sleep the same amount had higher levels of HDL. Snoring men and women were found to have lower HDL levels.
Excessive Sleep
Too much sleep is also known to affect cholesterol levels. According to a study conducted in Japan, women who slept less than five hours and more than eight hours per night had higher levels of triglyceride. This is where sleep apnea treatments become helpful.
On the other hand, men who were sleeping eight or more hours every night had a lower risk of high HDL levels than those who stood awake late at night.
Steps to Improve Sleep Quality
You must plan to sleep at least seven to eight hours every night, but not more than that.
You can set daily reminders for waking up and going to bed.
It is important to keep your bedroom dark, cool, and quiet.
You can even use earplugs and install light-blocking shades or curtains.
Keep your smartphone away from your reach during sleep time.
Stay away from caffeine, alcohol, and nicotine products as these may ruin your sleep quality.
Our Promise of Professionalism
Oklahoma Otolaryngology Associates offer the most reliable and high-quality healthcare to patients looking for sleep apnea treatments. Our physicians have more than 35 years of experience in finding out the nature of your issue and preparing a treatment plan as per your needs. Explore our website to schedule an appointment today.
**Disclaimer: The information on this page is not intended to be a doctor's advice, nor does it create any form of patient-doctor relationship.