A glass of wine may seem harmless, but drinking before bed can raise nighttime blood pressure and disrupt sleep. Research shows heavy drinkers have higher blood pressure and greater risks of hypertension, arrhythmia, and stroke.
Don’t Have Your Dinner Late
In the evening, your body naturally starts winding down and eating late forces your digestion and insulin to keep working. This can raise blood sugar, cause reflux, and make it harder to sleep. Make sure you have your last meal two to three hours before bed for better sleep and metabolism. If you must eat late, choose something light so your organs don’t need to work overtime.
The Importance of Keeping a Regular Bedtime Schedule
According to research, irregular sleep patterns can increase the risk of heart problems, even if you get enough total sleep. Try to get 7 to 9 hours of sleep each night and stick to a regular schedule for going to bed and waking up. If your schedule allows it, create your own relaxing routine like showering or reading to signal your brain it’s time to rest. If you usually go to bed late, start shifting your bedtime by 15 minutes each night.
Limit or Eliminate Caffeine Before Bed
Caffeine can ruin a good night’s sleep, even if you drink it six hours before bed. Try cutting it off by late afternoon to sleep better and lower your risk of heart disease and stroke.
Disclaimer: This article is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment and is for informational purposes only.
