By understanding how air pollution and other factors influence our sleeping patterns, we can develop strategies and solutions to help minimize the negative impact they may have.
The new study published in Sleep Health was one of the first to measure multiple environmental variables in the bedroom and examine the association with sleep efficiency. Researchers compared sleep efficiency during exposures to environmental variables and measured from the highest 20 percent of levels versus the lowest 20 percent of levels.
It was found that high noise was associated with a 4.7 percent decrease in sleep efficiency compared to low noise plus high carbon dioxide with a 4.0 percent decline, Low levels with high temperature with a 3.4 percent decline compared to low temperature, and high air pollution with a 3.2 percent decline compared to low air pollution.
Due to these findings, researchers suggest that more studies may be needed to help build interventions to improve sleep efficiency by reducing exposure to sleep-disrupting factors.
“This could be as simple as leaving a bedroom door open to lower carbon dioxide levels, and using triple-pane windows to reduce noise,” Bhatnagar said study author, Aruni Bhatnagar, Ph.D.. “We also applied for funding that will allow us to investigate whether planting trees can improve sleep and cardiovascular health through improving health behaviors and the bedroom environment.”
In today’s environment, many people are suffering from poor sleep efficiency. This lack of proper sleep has previously been linked to a higher risk of chronic diseases, including heart disease, type 2 diabetes, depression, and dementia, so it is vital that we find resources to help people get the sleep they need.
As this study shows, many factors can play into poor sleep. However, with proper knowledge and a few lifestyle changes, everyone can benefit from a good night’s sleep.
Promoting Optimal Sleep
Sleep Sure Plus is designed to help promote optimal sleep and restfulness through a variety of ingredients. One of the most important ingredients included in this unique formula is melatonin.
Melatonin is a hormone essential for regulating the circadian rhythm (the internal clock of the body). Sleep Sure Plus also contains valerian, one of the best natural ingredients for promoting rest and relaxation. These two essential ingredients are joined by another 6, which all work together to provide a better quality of sleep.