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Reduced sleep can lead to increased heart disease risk
The Daily Mail today reports that “people who deprive themselves of sleep may be more likely to die of heart disease. A new study has identified a link between lack of sleep, high blood pressure and cardiovascular disease. An analysis of more than 6,500 people also found that women getting less than five hours’ sleep were twice as likely to have hypertension as men. Hypertension – chronically high blood pressure – is a risk factor for heart disease, Britain’s biggest killer. Researchers said the results were “highly suggestive” that sleep deprivation may be also linked to death from cardiovascular disease.
The study also found that women with sleep deprivation were at significantly increased risk of high blood pressure. However men were unaffected. All groups had similar levels of smoking and drinking, but the women who were deprived of sleep tended to have a poorer lifestyle and were more likely to be on medication, suggesting other factors at work. Experts said the results showed people should get more sleep as a precaution against high blood pressure, as well as cutting cholesterol and getting more exercise.”
So, in addition to eating healthily and exercising on a regular basis, getting a good nights sleep is also essential to long term health and well-being. Many people in the UK work very long hours, and after they have spent time with family, pursued their hobbies and sports, they unwittingly deprive themselves of the rest that they require to maintain a healthy cardiovascular system. Sleep is possibly one of the most underrated activities for maintaining good health.
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