If you were told that there was a pill to help your body fight off disease and inflammation, make you 
look younger and loose weight, would you buy it?
Yes, of course you would. One would go to great lengths to get it.
What if you were told that the pill was SLEEP? Most Americans would laugh. Why? Because, one would rather spend time going to great lengths chasing a pill then to change their habits. On a average most Americans get far less sleep then the required sleep of 7-9 hours a night.
As a cancer survivor, getting enough sleep can help your body respond better to treatment and may speed your recovery. It may also help you stay well if you’re exposed to other viruses, such as colds and the flu.
Researchers have discovered that during sleep, your immune system releases proteins called cytokines which can help you deal with stress, fight infections and decrease inflammation in the body. When you don’t get enough sleep, these protective proteins and other important infection-fighting cells are reduced.
Your body needs adequate sleep to fight infections and inflammation. Long-term lack of sleep can not only put you at risk for a weaker immune system, but can also increase your risk for other chronic conditions such as obesity, diabetes and heart disease.
Lack of sleep can also affect your mind. Sleep helps you rest your mind and prepare for a new day of activity, memories and experiences. If you’re not able to sleep well on a regular basis, you may find that you have trouble with memory and concentration. You may also have more anxiety and low emotions.
So, it’s important for both your body and your mind to get your zzz’s. Mayo Clinic experts recommend 7 steps to healthy sleep, which include:
- Be consistent with your sleep schedule
- Pay attention to what you eat and drink before bedtime
- Create a bedtime routine
- Be comfortable for sleeping
- Limit napping during the day
- Get some physical activity every day
- Manage your stress
Fo more information on these strategies, visit the sleep center on MayoClinic.com By Sheryl M. Ness, R.N.