Why Do We Need Sleep?
Our bodies use sleep to rest and real levitra online best price recover. During the day, new experiences help our brain cells to build connections. Whilst we sleep, these connections are developed and strengthened. A good night’s rest is also essential for energy conservation, insulin function and of course, emotional wellbeing.
How Does Sleep Affect Your Hormones?
Hormonal changes in the body mean that anxiety and sleep can become connected in a continuous cycle. Periods of stress cause surges in the stress hormones cortisol and adrenalin as well as increased blood pressure and a rapid heart rate. These symptoms make relaxation and ‘switching off’ extremely difficult. The consequent lack of sleep increase our levels of cortisol and the cycle begins again.
Sleep deprivation affects other hormones too. Insomnia decreases our levels of leptin (the hormone that tells us we’re full) and increases our levels of ghrelin (a hunger-stimulating chemical.) These imbalances can cause a whole host of symptoms including weight gain, mood swings and more.