Sleep is Just as Important as Diet and Exercise

Friday, March 7th, 2008

People are always discussing, what is the best thing you can do for your body? Eating right and exercise seem to be at the top of peoples lists for having a healthy body. Recent studies show that sleep is also very important in being healthy. There are several body functions that are disturbed when you’re not getting enough sleep. This ranges from neuropsychiatric disruptions to general cardiovascular function and even insulin resistance.

sleep-insulin-resistanceSleep deprivation can disrupt normal brain function and lead to short term memory loss, anxiety and even depression. While you sleep, heart rate, blood pressure, adrenaline and platelet function slow down. Disrupting this slowdown can increase your risk of heart attack, stroke and blood clots. Sleep is important so your body has a chance to recover and recuperate from all the stresses you incur during the day.

During the deepest part of your sleep the body releases cortisol. Cortisol regulates the immune system and plays vital a role in glucose regulation. If you don’t give your body the chance to release enough cortisol you will run the risk of diabetes and a poor immune system. What a great way to prevent getting the common cold or the flu by boosting your immune system with sleep.

During deep sleep, your body also releases leptin. Leptin plays a significant role in suppressing appetite. If you sleep less you tend to have more snacks and meals when you shouldn’t. The deprivation of leptin increases your risk of obesity and insulin resistance. Insulin resistance is a precursor to diabetes and for women it can cause fertility problems. A common symptom in women suffering from polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is due to insulin resistance.

As you can see sleep is very important. Do you find yourself fatigued, falling asleep involuntarily, or waking up at night? These are indications that you are not getting enough sleep. Do your body a favor and be sure to get seven to eight hours of restful sleep every night.

bcm.edu

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Toxins & Fertility

Thursday, July 5th, 2007

Toxins are everywhere and we are inundated with toxins every day. There are toxins in our food, air, water, toiletries, etc. The list goes on and on. Toxins accumulate in the tissues of your body over time. These toxins can also make it a challenge for some couples because of their effects on male and female fertility.

Toxins are in your food directly from many preservatives. Some toxins get into your body from food indirectly. For example Methoxychlor or MCX is a common pesticide used to kill flies, mosquitoes, cockroaches & other insects and is applied directly to crops, livestock, home gardens, & pets. MCX alters a gene in the female reproductive tract and reduces the ability of the uterus to support embryo implantation. Toxic substances are found in fish including – mercury, PCBs, lead, chromium, and arsenic just to name a few.

When it comes to toiletries you need to be careful what you put on your body. Dibutyl phthalate in particular (DBP) which is one of the most common and potent reproductive & developmental toxins, is widespread. DBP is used primarily in nail polishes, but also found in shampoos, conditioners, lotions, antiperspirants, sunscreen, etc.

Do not expect to eliminate all toxins from your life - it is impossible. However, you can do your best by living more of a natural and healthy lifestyle. Eat organic, raw foods.Use water and air filters. Be careful when using cosmetics, cleaning, and laundry products.

Try using alternative methods of detoxifying your body with acupuncture, yoga, meditation, and reflexology to name a few. Try to minimize your stress and mental clutter. You have one body for one lifetime, so take care of it.

Fertility - A Much Better Way:

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