CrucialHealth
Admin
20 posts
Jan 19, 2009
4:31 PM
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To Your Health
Our next to last article in this series, Get plenty of sleep. The body uses sleep as a time to heal and recharge systems. When sleep is interrupted or shortened our bodies reap the consequences.
Children need 10-12 hours of sleep each night because their bodies are growing so quickly. Tissues need sleep to heal and sleep is the time cells multiply the fastest because energy is not needed for other functions.
I used to substitute teach in public schools and was always distressed to see all the sleepy children who could not concentrate. Many actually slept during classes missing so much they needed to learn. Children up to age 18 or 20 need much more sleep to keep their bodies working properly. Limit computer and video games to after school, not evening times.
Adults need 7-9 hours depending upon that person’s stress levels. The more stress, the more sleep is necessary. Getting that much sleep is nearly impossible for some people. High stress, caffeine intake, too much activity near bedtime, exercise too late in the evening, and many other things such as how much light is in your bedroom all play a part.
Other influences on sleep can include a lack of nutrients. Some minerals calm and relax nerves and allow us to sleep deeper and longer. I used to be a very light sleeper and had problems focusing during the day. Now I sleep about 7 hours straight and wake refreshed. Diet, nutrients, relaxation and exercise have all helped in this area.
Another issue which can cause problems in brain function is electromagnetic fields. Keep your LCD clock at least 4 feet away from your head while you sleep. Old wiring, unprotected wiring or damaged wiring can all emit electromagnetic fields which can disturb brain function and sleep.
Stop by Crucial Health located inside Crucial Tackle to learn more about sleep, brain function and other health issues. Information is always researched and free. Contact us with a topic you would like to see addressed in this column.
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