DIGESTIVE HEALTH

Q: Is There a Correlation Between a Good Night’s Sleep and Your Diet? A:

Are you one of the 40 million Americans suffering from chronic long-term sleep problems? If so, you’ve probably tried at least one remedy to help you catch some Z’s. Many common sleep problems can be linked to the kinds of foods we eat or when we eat them. Here are some common sleep issues that you may be able to alleviate by modifying your diet:

• Snoring –While this issue is often caused by enlarged tissues in the nose, mouth or throat, it can also be a result of dehydration. Be sure to drink at least eight glasses of water a day. • Nightmares – Spikes and crashes in blood sugar can disrupt your mood, causing nightmares. Try following a well-balanced diet including proteins, fat and carbs. This will help to stabilize your blood sugar and prevent sleep disturbances. • Acid Reflux – Nighttime reflux often occurs when food has not had adequate time to digest before you lie down. Try to finish meals at least two to three hours before bedtime, and avoid latenight snacking.

• Poor Sleep Quality – That traditional nightcap might make you feel relaxed before bedtime, but could be contributing to a poor night’s sleep. Alcohol disrupts deeper levels of sleep, leaving you feeling lethargic and unrested the next morning.

In our gastroenterology practice, if middle-of-the-night GERD is shattering your sleep, we can help. Feel free to discuss this with us personally. For your convenience, you may request an appointment on our website www.cdhohio.com. Center for Digestive Health 34940 Ridge Rd. #B Willoughby, OH 44094 (440) 953-1899 www.cdhwilloughby.com