Sleep disorders affect about 45% of the global population. A poor night’s sleep reduces concentration and productivity and increases the risk of diseases such as hypertension and diabetes. The good news is that maintaining a regular routine of physical activity can help prevent these issues. Just ten minutes of aerobic exercise a day, such as running, cycling, or walking, is already enough to make a difference. Keep reading to learn more.
One of the most common sleep disorders is sleep apnea. To diagnose it, in addition to clinical evaluation, healthcare practitioners may prescribe a polysomnography (sleep study). During consultations, it is essential to ask patients about their sleep routines and family environments.
The Biologix Sleep Test® is a multimodal polysomnography that measures channels such as oxygen saturation, heart rate, actimetry and snoring through the microphone of a cellphone. This test can be performed at home and is simple, practical, and effective. Furthermore, healthcare practitioners use it for diagnosing and treating sleep apnea. At bedtime, the patient only needs to place the sensor on their finger and start the test in the Biologix app. Upon waking up the next morning, they tap on “Finish test”, and they will receive their results in a matter of seconds.
The Importance of Physical Activity for Achieving Good Sleep
Regular physical activity is key to promoting health, improving quality of life, and reducing the risk of chronic diseases. It also contributes to longevity. Its benefits include hormone regulation, which helps alleviate depression, improved sleep duration, with studies showing a 37% increase in total sleep time among people with chronic insomnia, weight management, and enhanced well-being, thanks to the release of endorphins and other beneficial substances.
Insufficient sleep directly affects concentration, memory, mood, and overall performance. By contrast, daily exercise promotes longer sleep duration, reduces stress, and creates the physical fatigue necessary for better sleep.
Specialists recommend exercising in the morning or afternoon, when the body naturally releases more endorphins (the “feel-good” hormones), boosting mood and energy. High-intensity workouts late at night, however, may have the opposite effect and hinder sleep.
Morning and afternoon exercise also align with natural body temperature rhythms, which enhance both muscle efficiency and performance.
Active individuals generally fall asleep faster, sleep more deeply, avoid fragmented sleep, and wake up feeling more rested and energetic. They also experience better concentration, improved physical and mental performance, weight loss, and an overall higher quality of life.
Never take sleeping pills without medical supervision. Self-medicating can lead to serious health risks and complications.
Have you experienced the benefits of physical activity on your sleep? Don’t wait any longer, start moving today!
DISCLAIMER: Only properly qualified physicians can diagnose diseases, recommend treatments and prescribe medications. The information available herein is for educational purposes only.
