Not getting enough sleep can increase the risk of several health issues such as cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, depression, anxiety, gastrointestinal issues, and cancer. Previous research has shown that certain lifestyle changes, including increasing daily activity, can improve sleep quality. Researchers from Reykjavik University in Iceland found that individuals who exercise at least twice a week had a lower risk of insomnia and experienced improved sleep duration. The study, published in BMJ Open, aimed to explore the relationship between exercise and insomnia risk to provide alternative or complementary interventions for individuals with sleep issues.
The study accessed data from 4,339 participants of the European Community Respiratory Health Survey, who answered questions about their physical activity at baseline and during a 10-year follow-up. Researchers discovered that regular exercise was correlated with a decreased risk of difficulty falling asleep, insomnia symptoms, and overall sleep disturbances. Consistently active individuals were also more likely to be normal sleepers, with a 55% increase in the likelihood of having optimal sleep outcomes. The findings underscore the profound impact of exercise on sleep health and highlight the potential of incorporating exercise interventions into sleep hygiene protocols and treatment plans for sleep disorders.
Factors such as body mass index (BMI) and smoking history were considered in the study to evaluate how exercise affects sleep quality. The research team found that lifestyle factors such as BMI and smoking can influence sleep quality, emphasizing the importance of addressing these factors in patient care. By integrating knowledge of lifestyle factors into clinical practice, physicians can play a crucial role in promoting healthy sleep habits and improving overall patient well-being. The interconnectedness of various lifestyle factors and their influence on sleep quality emphasizes the need for a holistic approach to patient care that addresses not only sleep hygiene but also other lifestyle factors that impact sleep.
Dr. Monique May, a board-certified family physician for Aeroflow Sleep, noted that regular exercise has numerous benefits for the body, including improved sleep quality. Participants in the study only had to exercise two or more times per week for at least one hour per week to be considered physically active, making this goal more attainable for some individuals. The key takeaway is that movement, at some level and regularity, can have a positive impact on sleep quality. Dr. Vernon Williams, a board-certified neurologist, highlighted the critical role of high-quality sleep in our survival and overall health. He emphasized that sleep has a significant impact on brain function and overall health, including its role in optimizing brain function and physiologic processes throughout the body.
In conclusion, the study from Reykjavik University in Iceland provides further evidence of the benefits of regular exercise on sleep quality and insomnia risk. The findings support the use of exercise interventions in sleep hygiene protocols and treatment plans for sleep disorders to improve sleep outcomes and overall well-being. The study also highlights the importance of addressing lifestyle factors such as BMI and smoking in patient care to promote healthy sleep habits. Integrating knowledge of lifestyle factors into clinical practice can enhance patient outcomes and improve overall sleep quality. Ultimately, the research reinforces the need for a comprehensive, holistic approach to managing sleep disorders and promoting optimal sleep health through physical activity and other healthy lifestyle choices.
