A good night’s rest is important to stay in good health. Sleep is as vital to your health as nutrition and exercise, and it is particularly more important when you have type 2 diabetes. 

Getting inadequate amounts of sleep puts stress on your body, causing it to release hormones, including Cortisol which increases insulin resistance and blood sugar levels. Lack of sleep also affects your mood and mental health.

These tips can help you get optimal rest when managing type 2 diabetes.

1. Check for Obstructive Sleep Apnea. Obstructive Sleep Apnea is a sleep condition in which breathing starts and stops while you’re asleep and is common among people with type 2 diabetes, as the National Sleep Foundation (NSF) says. This breathing disorder affects the body’s oxygen supply and leads to lower-quality sleep. Known symptoms of sleep apnea include loud snoring at night and feeling tired during the day. Ask your doctor about a sleep test if you think you have sleep apnea.

2. Prioritize Blood Glucose Management. You are more at risk of getting low-quality sleep if your blood sugar is too high or too low. Visit your diabetes healthcare provider and monitor your glucose levels for 24-hour periods.

3. Practice Good Sleep Habits. Getting at least seven hours of sleep at night is essential to everyone, especially those with chronic conditions like diabetes. Having a regular pattern for the time you go to bed and the time you wake up helps your body’s internal clock work best.

4. Avoid Stimulants At Night. To reduce the risk of sleep disturbances, do not drink alcohol and caffeinated beverages, turn off electronic devices, and avoid exercising before bedtime.

5. Exercise At Daytime. Getting some physical activity during the day, such as aerobic exercise, will help you in getting a good night’s sleep when you have diabetes. Exercise raises your internal body temperature, then later in the day, it drops back down to normal, which causes sleepiness. It also helps you burn calories and lose weight which helps to control type 2 diabetes.

6. Find Ways To Relax. De-stressing before going to bed can encourage getting a good night’s sleep. Stress causes increased adrenaline and releases the hormones Cortisol, leading to feelings of restlessness. Try deep breathing, visualization, and meditation to relax your mind and body and get better sleep.

7. Make Bedroom Suited For Sleep. A comfortable bedroom is essential for getting a good night’s sleep when you have diabetes. Maintain a cool, quiet, relaxing, and dark bedroom. Consider buying a new mattress to ensure better sleep.

The Takeaway

Consult your doctor if you have diabetes and experiencing persistent sleep problems. Consider changing your lifestyle to manage your diabetes and improve the quality of your sleep.

See the related article here: https://www.roadtoahealthierlife.com/stop-eating-when-youre-full/