Sleep Archive

A 2026 study found that sleeping 7.3 hours on weeknights may be associated with better blood sugar regulation by improving insulin sensitivity-how efficiently cells respond to insulin and absorb sugar from the bloodstream.

Revenge bedtime procrastination involves sacrificing sleep to prioritize personal time for activities unrelated to the demands of work or caregiving. Short-term effects of insufficient quality sleep time include next-day fatigue and negative mood. Persistent sleep deprivation can increase risks of conditions such as cardiovascular disease and dementia.

People with insomnia can quiet a racing mind or relax a tense body with progressive muscle relaxation, which involves gradually tensing and relaxing muscles, beginning with the toes and working up the body.

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.

Cognitive behavioral therapy for insomnia (CBT-i) identifies and challenges thoughts about sleep that make it more difficult, eradicates bedroom activities other than sleep and sex, limits the time spent in bed to increase the drive to sleep, and teaches relaxation techniques.

Gut health plays a bigger role in overall well-being than many people realize, affecting digestion, mood, and immunity. Simple daily choices around food, movement, sleep, stress, and hydration can support a healthier, more resilient gut.

Snoring can strain sleep and relationships, but certain devices and habits may help. Positional aids, oral appliances, and lifestyle changes sometimes reduce noise, while persistent or severe symptoms warrant a medical check to rule out conditions like sleep apnea.