Sleep hygiene Archive

Compared to people who have moderate sleep-and-wake patterns, night owls may be more likely to have unhealthy habits that put their heart health at risk, according to a 2026 study.

Growing evidence suggests that poor sleep is linked to a host of health problems, including a higher risk of high blood pressure, diabetes, obesity, and heart disease. Now, a recent study on people in midlife finds that having a combination of sleep problems may nearly triple a person's risk of heart disease.

Sleep architecture is the pattern and sequence of sleep cycles and stages. People cycle through four to six periods of light and deep sleep each night. Aging, stress, illness, and alcohol consumption can influence people's sleep architecture.

Research suggests that people can exercise in the evening without it affecting their sleep if they avoid physical activity several hours before bedtime.

Waking up in the middle of the night happens to women more often after age 55 due to many factors. These include diminished hormones and circadian rhythm changes. Stress, bladder changes, medications, chronic pain, and alcohol and caffeine use can also contribute. People can break the cycle of nighttime wake-ups by practicing good sleep hygiene, addressing medical issues, trying mind-body techniques such as deep breathing or meditation, and limiting caffeine, alcohol, and heavy evening meals.