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Why You're Tired Despite Enough Sleep
22 Mar
Summary
- Sleep quality, not just quantity, determines restfulness.
- Alcohol, caffeine, and stress disrupt sleep quality.
- Women's sleep quality often suffers more than men's.
Many individuals find themselves feeling groggy and unrested despite getting seven to eight hours of sleep nightly. Dr. Wendy Troxel, a sleep expert, highlights the critical distinction between sleep quantity and quality, noting that approximately one-third of adults suffer from non-restorative sleep.
Factors such as late-day caffeine or alcohol consumption, stress, and bedtime phone use can fragment sleep. Research indicates women's sleep quality often declines more than men's, with increased susceptibility to insomnia and sleep disturbances during menopause.
Experts emphasize that a healthy lifestyle supports quality sleep. This includes maintaining a consistent sleep-wake schedule, eating a nutritious diet avoiding late-evening indigestion, and engaging in regular exercise, preferably earlier in the day to avoid stimulation before bedtime.
Troxel advises against "sleep-shaming" and encourages individuals to respect their natural circadian rhythms. She recommends gradually increasing sleep duration by small increments, such as 15 minutes per night, to help establish healthier sleep patterns and improve overall well-being.
