Back Clinic Sleep Hygiene Chiropractic Team. The ideal sleep environment is cool, quiet, and dark. However, research has shown that continuous sleep can be interrupted by uncomfortable room temperature, light, and noises. Proper sleep hygiene specialists may also recommend selecting a comfortable mattress, pillows, and bedding and moving or hiding a visible clock. This prevents the sleeper from focusing on time passing while trying to fall asleep. Dr. Alex Jimenez describes sleep hygiene as a variety of habits that are often necessary to achieve a proper quality of sleep to rise with full daytime alertness.
Sleep is essential for an individual’s mental and physical health and well-being because it is important in the body’s natural healing and repairing functions. Therefore, the most important sleeping measure is to maintain regular sleeping patterns. According to Dr. Jimenez, heavy meals before bed, caffeine or alcohol before bed, and even improper sleeping postures accompanied by pain and discomfort can be frequent poor sleep hygiene practices that can interfere with the sleep quality of many individuals. Sleep and hygiene articles can help provide useful insight towards improving sleep and overall health.
Individuals in post-surgery recovery or dealing with illness or an injury can experience weakened muscles and endurance that can cause temporary loss of sleeping mobility and not being able to move around normally because of weakness, decreased range of motion, or pain. Can they benefit from physical therapy to help get back to normal functional mobility?
Sleeping Mobility
For individuals who are hospitalized or homebound from injury, illness, or surgical recovery, a physical therapist will assess various areas of functional mobility. These include transfers – from sitting to standing positions, walking, and sleeping mobility. Sleeping mobility is the ability to perform specific motions while in bed. A therapist can assess sleeping or bed mobility and recommend strategies and exercises to improve movements. (O’Sullivan, S. B., Schmitz, T. J. 2016) A therapist may have the individual use specific devices, like an over-the-bed trapeze or a sliding board, to help move around.
All of these movements require strength in different muscle groups. By checking out individual motions in sleeping mobility, a therapist can work out specific muscle groups that may be weak and require targeted exercises and stretches to restore mobility to normal. (O’Sullivan, S. B., Schmitz, T. J. 2016) Individuals visiting a therapist in an outpatient clinic or rehabilitation area may have the individual work on sleeping mobility on a treatment table. The same motions on the treatment table can be done in the bed.
Importance
The body is meant to move.
For individuals who cannot move comfortably on their bed, the body may suffer disuse atrophy or the wasting away of muscular strength, which can lead to increased difficulties. Not being able to move can also lead to pressure ulcers, especially for individuals who are severely deconditioned and/or remain in one position for a long period. Skin health may start to break down, leading to painful wounds that require specialized care. Being able to move around in bed can help prevent pressure ulcers. (Surajit Bhattacharya, R. K. Mishra. 2015)
Improvement
A physical therapist can prescribe specific exercises to strengthen muscle groups and improve sleeping mobility. The muscles include:
Shoulder and rotator cuff muscles.
Triceps and biceps in the arms.
Gluteus muscles of the hips.
Hamstrings
Quadriceps
Calf muscles
The shoulders, arms, hips, and legs work together when moving the body around the bed.
Various Exercises
To improve bed movement, physical therapy exercises can include:
Physical therapists are trained to assess these motions and functions and prescribe treatments to improve body movement. (O’Sullivan, S. B., Schmitz, T. J. 2016) Maintaining appropriate physical fitness can help the body stay active and mobile. Performing mobility exercises prescribed by a physical therapist can keep the right muscle groups working properly, and working with a physical therapist can ensure the exercises are correct for the condition and are performed properly.
Bhattacharya, S., & Mishra, R. K. (2015). Pressure ulcers: Current understanding and newer modalities of treatment. Indian journal of plastic surgery : official publication of the Association of Plastic Surgeons of India, 48(1), 4–16. doi.org/10.4103/0970-0358.155260
Individuals spend around one-third of their life sleeping or resting. Every person has their own preferred sleeping position. However, not all sleep positions are comfortable and supportive to the body, especially the spine. Individuals that sleep on their side or stomach that experience back pain might want to consider switching to sleeping on their back. Changing preferred sleeping positions can seem impossible, however, learning to sleep on your back is possible with a little training and adjustment period.
Learning To Sleep On Your Back
After side sleeping, back sleeping is the second most common position. Individuals that are stomach or side sleepers that suffer from:
Learning to sleep on your back is recommended because its health benefits can potentially solve all these problems and more.
Adapting this sleeping position can help maintain proper spinal alignment.
Relieves waking up with tension headaches.
Relieve sinus problems.
Individuals that are not natural back sleepers understand how difficult it is to force oneself to adapt to a new sleeping position. There are ways to condition the mind and body to fall and stay asleep on your back, resulting in healthy rest. These include:
A Pillow Under The Knees
It may help to place a supportive pillow under the knees.
The knees should be slightly bent and feel comfortable.
Check to make sure that the neck and spine feel comfortable and are in alignment.
Make adjustments as needed.
A Pillow Under The Low Back
In the beginning, switching to back sleeping can increase discomfort in the low back.
Placing a pillow under the lower back can help.
Using too large or thick a pillow could create added discomfort.
Try a few different pillows to find what works best and feels right.
Pillow Surround
Individuals that are active sleepers and tend to roll onto their side or stomach soon after falling asleep, can place pillows around the midsection and hips.
A small barrier of pillows around the body can assist in learning to sleep on your back.
The pillows help prevent the body from rolling.
It’s recommended to place pillows closely against either side of the body.
Using the pillows as an enclosure will force the body to remain in a neutral position throughout the night.
Sleeping On The Right Pillow
Individuals will want to make sure they are using the right sleeping pillow.
In addition to supporting the spine’s alignment, a quality pillow will also support the neck.
The recommended pillow for back sleeping should cradle the head and ensure it stays elevated.
A pillow that is too flat or too thick can cause the head to become unlevel with the body leading to:
Neck and upper body pain
Restricted airflow, which may cause you to snore or suffer from sleep apnea.
Digestive issues like acid reflux and heartburn.
Consider a pillow that’s made out of some type of memory foam to assist with learning to sleep on your back.
The thickness and hugging sensation can help to stay on the back and prevent inadvertently flipping over.
Sleeping On The Right Mattress
A positive back sleeping experience begins with the right mattress. There are so many mattress types to choose from. It is recommended to consider the materials, the firmness level, and the size. For comfortably sleeping on your back, the firmness level is essential.
Consider the positioning of your spine.
The objective is to keep the spine as straight as possible, which is achieved with the proper firmness.
A mattress that is too firm will create unwanted pressure and tension on the shoulders and the pelvic region.
A mattress that is too soft will cause the hips to sink, throwing spinal alignment off and causing back pain symptoms.
A medium-firm mattress is recommended.
Memory foam is a great option for learning to sleep on your back.
Memory foam cradles the natural curve of the body, and hugs the body during sleep, which helps avoid accidentally rolling onto your side or stomach.
Memory foam mattresses with integrated gel can provide cooling and ventilation to keep the body refreshed throughout the night.
A medium-firm memory foam mattress will make sure the body stays straight, with the proper cushioning around the pelvis and hips.
Training To Sleep On Your Back
References
Anderson, Ngaire H et al. “Association of Supine Going-to-Sleep Position in Late Pregnancy With Reduced Birth Weight: A Secondary Analysis of an Individual Participant Data Meta-analysis.” JAMA network open vol. 2,10 e1912614. 2 Oct. 2019, doi:10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2019.12614
Desouzart, Gustavo, et al. “Effects of sleeping position on back pain in physically active seniors: A controlled pilot study.” Work (Reading, Mass.) vol. 53,2 (2015): 235-40. doi:10.3233/WOR-152243
Khan, Bashir Ahmad, et al. “Effect of bed head elevation during sleep in symptomatic patients of nocturnal gastroesophageal reflux.” Journal of Gastroenterology and Hepatology vol. 27,6 (2012): 1078-82. doi:10.1111/j.1440-1746.2011.06968.x
Portale, G et al. “When are reflux episodes symptomatic?.” Diseases of the esophagus: official journal of the International Society for Diseases of the Esophagus vol. 20,1 (2007): 47-52. doi:10.1111/j.1442-2050.2007.00650.x
Skarpsno, Eivind Schjelderup, et al. “Sleep positions and nocturnal body movements based on free-living accelerometer recordings: association with demographics, lifestyle, and insomnia symptoms.” Nature and Science of Sleep vol. 9 267-275. 1 Nov. 2017, doi:10.2147/NSS.S145777
Surdea-Blaga, Teodora, et al. “Food and Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease.” Current medicinal chemistry vol. 26,19 (2019): 3497-3511. doi:10.2174/0929867324666170515123807
Individuals can become overly passionate about exercising. However, constantly training the body without taking enough time to rest and recover can impact athletes and fitness enthusiasts physically and mentally and lead to overtraining syndrome. Excessive training can cause decreases in athletic physical performance that can be long-lasting, sometimes taking several weeks or months to recover. Individuals who don’t learn to manage overtraining can have injuries and more frequent illnesses and infections. And the psychological effects can also lead to negative mood changes. Learn the signs and how to cut back to prevent injury and/or burnout.
Overtraining Syndrome
Athletes and fitness lovers often exercise longer and harder than average to reach peak performance. Even individuals just getting started with exercise can push their limits as they try to figure out what works for them. This means taking into consideration the following:
The mental side of training.
How to get and stay motivated.
How to set up a safe and effective program with balanced cardio and strength training.
How to avoid skipping workouts when things get in the way.
Exercising too much is a mistake many beginners make, putting themselves at risk for injury.
Overtraining syndrome is when the body goes through and feels:
Extreme fatigue.
Physical performance problems.
Mood changes.
Sleep disturbances.
Other issues due to working out or training too much and/or too hard without giving the body enough time to rest.
Overtraining is common among athletes who train beyond their body’s ability to recover, usually when preparing for a competition or event. Conditioning for athletes and enthusiasts requires a balance between work and recovery.
Signs and Symptoms
There are several signs to look for, with the more common symptoms being:
Mild muscle or joint soreness, general aches, and pains.
Decreased training capacity, intensity, or performance.
Lack of energy, constantly tired, and/or drained.
Brain fog.
Insomnia.
Decreased appetite or weight loss.
Loss of enthusiasm for the sport or exercise.
Irregular heart rate or heart rhythm.
Increased injuries.
Increased headaches.
Feeling depressed, anxious, or irritable.
Sexual dysfunction or decreased sex drive.
Lower immunity with an increase in colds and sore throats.
Prevent Overtraining
Predicting whether there is a risk of overtraining can be tricky because every person responds differently to various training routines.
Individuals have to vary their training throughout and schedule adequate time for rest.
Individuals who believe they may be training too hard should try the following strategies to prevent overtraining syndrome.
Take Note of Mental and Mood Changes
Methods exist to test for overtraining objectively.
One is taking note of psychological signs and symptoms associated with changes in an individual’s mental state can be an indicator.
Decreased positive feelings for exercise, physical activities, and sports.
Increased negative emotions, like depression, anger, fatigue, and irritability, can appear after a few days of intense training.
If these feelings and emotions begin to present, it is time to rest or dial the intensity down.
Training Log
A training log that notes how the body feels daily.
It can help individuals notice downward trends and decreased enthusiasm.
This can help individuals learn to listen to their body’s signals and rest when necessary.
Monitor Heart Rate
Another option is to track changes in heart rate over time.
Monitor heart rate at rest and specific exercise intensities while training, and record it.
If the heart rate increases at rest or a given intensity, this could be a risk indicator, especially if symptoms develop.
Track resting heart rate each morning.
Individuals can manually take a pulse for 60 seconds immediately after waking up.
Individuals can also use a heart rate monitor or fitness band.
Any marked increase from the norm may indicate that the body has not fully recovered.
Treatment
Rest and Recovery
Reduce or stop the exercise and allow the mind and body a few rest days.
Research on overtraining shows that complete rest is the primary treatment.
Take Extra Rest Days
Starting anything new will usually make the body sore.
Be prepared for the aches and take extra rest days when needed.
The body won’t have the same energy levels from day to day or even from week to week.
Consult A Trainer
Not sure where to start or how to approach working out safely.
This is the time to meet with a professional who can look at physical and medical history, fitness level, and goals.
They can develop a customized program to meet specific needs.
Nutrition and Hydration
Maintain optimal body hydration with plenty of H2O/water and rehydrating drinks, vegetables, and fruits.
Staying properly hydrated is key to both recovery and prevention.
Getting enough protein and carbohydrates supports muscle recovery.
Carbs are important for endurance, and protein is important for muscular strength and power.
Sports Chiropractic Massage
Research shows that sports massage benefits muscle recovery and can improve delayed onset muscle soreness/DOMS.
Massage keeps muscles loose and flexible and increases blood circulation for expedited recovery.
Relaxation Techniques
Stress-reduction techniques such as deep breathing and progressive muscle relaxation exercises can improve rest and recovery.
Total recovery from overtraining syndrome can take a few weeks or longer, depending on the individual’s health status and how long the excessive training has gone on. A physician can refer individuals to a physical therapist or sports chiropractor, who can develop a personalized recovery plan to get the body back to top form.
Military Training and Chiropractic
References
Bell, G W. “Aquatic sports massage therapy.” Clinics in sports medicine vol. 18,2 (1999): 427-35, ix. doi:10.1016/s0278-5919(05)70156-3
Carrard, Justin, et al. “Diagnosing Overtraining Syndrome: A Scoping Review.” Sports Health vol. 14,5 (2022): 665-673. doi:10.1177/19417381211044739
Davis, Holly Louisa, et al. “Effect of sports massage on performance and recovery: a systematic review and meta-analysis.” BMJ open sport & exercise medicine vol. 6,1 e000614. 7 May. 2020, doi:10.1136/bmjsem-2019-000614
Grandou, Clementine, et al. “Symptoms of Overtraining in Resistance Exercise: International Cross-Sectional Survey.” International Journal of sports physiology and Performance vol. 16,1 (2021): 80-89. doi:10.1123/ijspp.2019-0825
Meeusen, Romain, et al. “Brain neurotransmitters in fatigue and overtraining.” Applied physiology, nutrition, and metabolism = Physiologie applique, nutrition et metabolisme vol. 32,5 (2007): 857-64. doi:10.1139/H07-080
Peluso, Marco Aurélio Monteiro, and Laura Helena Silveira Guerra de Andrade. “Physical activity and mental health: the association between exercise and mood.” Clinics (Sao Paulo, Brazil) vol. 60,1 (2005): 61-70. doi:10.1590/s1807-59322005000100012
Weerapong, Pornratshanee, et al. “The mechanisms of massage and effects on performance, muscle recovery, and injury prevention.” Sports medicine (Auckland, N.Z.) vol. 35,3 (2005): 235-56. doi:10.2165/00007256-200535030-00004
Lying down on the couch or bed when the lower leg seizes with intense sensations and pain that doesn’t stop, and the muscle could be hard to the touch. When trying to move the leg, it feels paralyzed. Nocturnal leg cramps, called muscle spasms or Charley horses, occur when one or more leg muscles tighten involuntarily. Individuals can be awake or asleep when a leg cramp strikes. Chiropractic treatment, decompression, and massage therapies can help relieve symptoms, stretch and relax the muscles, and restore function and health.
Nocturnal Leg Cramps
Nocturnal leg cramps most often affect the gastrocnemius/calf muscle. However, they can also affect the muscles in the front of the thigh/quadriceps and the back of the thigh/hamstrings.
Often, the tight muscle relaxes in less than 10 minutes.
The leg and area can feel sore and tender afterward.
Frequent calf cramps at night can cause sleep problems.
Nocturnal leg cramps are more common among women and older adults.
Causes
There are no known exact cause/s, making most cases idiopathic. However, there are known factors that can increase the risk. These can include:
Prolonged Sitting and Position
Sitting with the legs crossed or the toes pointed for long periods shortens/pulls the calf muscles, which can cause cramping.
Prolonged Standing and Posture
Individuals standing for long periods are likelier to experience nocturnal cramps from the stressed muscles.
Muscle Overexertion
Too much exercise can create an overworked muscle and can contribute to cramps.
Muscles need to be stretched regularly to function correctly.
Lack of physical activity for long periods weakens the muscles, making them more susceptible to injury.
Shortening The Tendons
The tendons, which connect muscles and bones, shorten naturally over time.
Without stretching, this could lead to cramping.
Cramps may be related to foot position when sleeping, with the feet and toes extending away from the body, known as plantar flexion.
This shortens the calf muscles, making them more susceptible to cramping.
Leg cramps at night are unlikely a sign of a more serious medical condition, but they are associated with the following conditions:
Musculoskeletal disorders.
Structural issues – flat feet or spinal stenosis.
Metabolic disorders like diabetes.
Pregnancy.
Medications – statins and diuretics.
Neurological disorders, like motor neuron disease or peripheral neuropathy.
Neurodegenerative disorders.
Liver, kidney, and thyroid conditions.
Cardiovascular conditions.
Chiropractic and Physical Therapy
Rehabilitation with chiropractic, massage, and physical therapy depends on the severity of the injury and condition. A chiropractic treatment plan can include the following:
Calf muscle stretching.
Targeted Stretch Exercises.
Progressive calf stretching exercises – a regular stretching and flexibility program will increase the range of motion and prevent future calf injuries.
Foam rolling – gentle self-massage with a foam roller can help reduce spasms and improve blood circulation.
Percussive massage.
Muscle strengthening exercises will build muscle strength and coordination to prevent future strain injuries.
At-home therapy can include:
Maintain Hydration
Fluids allow for normal muscle function.
Individuals may need to adjust how much fluid is drunk based on weather, age, activity level, and medications.
Change Sleeping Position
Individuals should avoid sleeping in positions in which the feet are pointing downward.
Try sleeping on the back with a pillow behind the knees.
Self Massage
Massaging the affected muscles will help them relax.
Use one or both hands or a massage gun to knead and loosen the muscles gently.
Stretching
Various stretches will maintain the treatment, help keep the muscles relaxed and retrain the muscles.
Stationary Cycle
A few minutes of easy pedaling can help loosen the leg muscles before bed.
Walking on the Heels
This will activate the muscles on the other side of the calf, allowing the calves to relax.
Supportive Footwear
Poor footwear can aggravate issues with the nerves and muscles in the feet and legs.
Orthotics may help.
Heat Application
Heat can soothe tight muscles and increases blood flow to the area.
Apply a hot towel, water bottle, heating pad, or muscle topical cream to the affected area.
A warm bath or shower (if available, shower massage setting) can also help.
Sciatica Secrets Revealed
References
Allen, Richard E, and Karl A Kirby. “Nocturnal leg cramps.” American family physician vol. 86,4 (2012): 350-5.
Butler, J V et al. “Nocturnal leg cramps in older people.” Postgraduate medical journal vol. 78,924 (2002): 596-8. doi:10.1136/pmj.78.924.596
Garrison, Scott R et al. “Magnesium for skeletal muscle cramps.” The Cochrane Database of systematic reviews vol. 2012,9 CD009402. Sep 12, 2012, doi:10.1002/14651858.CD009402.pub2
Giuffre BA, Black AC, Jeanmonod R. Anatomy, Sciatic Nerve. [Updated 2023 May 4]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2023 Jan-. Available from: www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK482431/
Handa, Junichi, et al. “Nocturnal Leg Cramps and Lumbar Spinal Stenosis: A Cross-Sectional Study in the Community.” International Journal of general medicine vol. 15 7985-7993. Nov 1 2022, doi:10.2147/IJGM.S383425
Hsu D, Chang KV. Gastrocnemius Strain. [Updated 2022 Aug 22]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2023 Jan-. Available from: www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK534766/
Mayo Clinic Staff. (2019). Night leg cramps. mayoclinic.org/symptoms/night-leg-cramps/basics/causes/sym-20050813
Monderer, Renee S et al. “Nocturnal leg cramps.” Current Neurology and Neuroscience report vol. 10,1 (2010): 53-9. doi:10.1007/s11910-009-0079-5
With the summer approaching, the day’s heat makes the body want to eat light or not at all. That’s when late-night hunger kicks in. Individuals can’t sleep because their stomachs won’t stop growling. Whatever the reason, the body needs something to eat to go back to sleep. The challenge is figuring out what’s quick, tasty, healthy, and can help promote sleep, as some foods contain compounds that can improve sleep.
Late-Night Nutritious Snacks
There are several reasons for needing a late-night snack, and a healthy snack can be a good way to get some additional nutrients for the next day. Having small nutrient-rich snacks under 200 calories is fine. Individuals who regularly have late-night snacks should consider having prepared snacks to promote sleep and not inhibit sleep. Planning is the key to choosing snacks to help support healthy sleep and satisfy hunger.
Snacks To Consider
Pumpkin Seeds
Pumpkin contains tryptophan which contributes to sleep.
They also contain essential nutrients zinc, phosphorus, potassium, selenium, and magnesium.
These can help combat illnesses related to inflammation.
Bananas
Bananas are a healthy source of dietary melatonin.
In one study, individuals who ate a banana had an increase in serum melatonin levels two hours after eating.
The potassium content of bananas can help inhibit muscle cramps, a problem some individuals have when trying to sleep.
Glass of Milk
Warm or cold, a glass of milk before bed can help improve sleep.
Milk contains antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help improve sleep quality.
Sleep-inducing amino acids like tryptophan are also found in milk.
Dairy milk is not the only type of milk shown to aid sleep.
Soy milk is a good source of both melatonin and tryptophan.
Plant-based milk made with nuts can confer the same benefits as whole nuts.
Milk and Cereal
Individuals may reserve cereal for breakfast, but it can make a healthy late-night snack to promote sleep.
One study found that high-glycemic carbs in many corn-based cereals before bed reduced the time it took to fall asleep.
Limit portion size as the entire snack should be under 300 calories, especially for those with heartburn, as a heavy meal can exacerbate the problem.
Dairy products contain calcium, a mineral that directly produces the sleep hormone melatonin and is a natural relaxant in the body.
Peanut Butter and Jelly Sandwich
Foods like peanut butter contain an amino acid called tryptophan, which is converted into melatonin to promote sleepiness.
Carbohydrates like bread and jelly help make tryptophan more available to the brain.
Option for whole grain bread and natural peanut butter with no added sugars for added nutrition.
Yogurt with Fruit
Plain yogurt with berries, chopped nuts, and honey.
Yogurt provides a healthy source of calcium, which has been linked to better sleep.
Be sure to read the labels, as some varieties contain added sugar.
Fruit and Nuts
Fruit and nuts are great when hungry and tired.
They provide nutritional benefits, including vitamins, minerals, protein, complex carbs, healthy fats, and fiber.
They nourish, provide satisfaction, and help the body fall asleep.
An apple with a handful of almonds, a banana, and pecans, or a pear with a few walnuts.
One teaspoon of peanut butter on banana slices or dip apple slices in almond butter.
If almond butter is too thick for dipping, microwave 1-2 tablespoons for 30 seconds until it’s soft enough to dip.
Popcorn
Popcorn is a great snack that is low in calories.
Three cups of air-popped popcorn have fewer than 100 calories and about 4 grams of fiber.
Skip the butter and mix in dried spices for extra flavor.
Vegetables and Dip
Craving something crunchy and low-calorie, fresh vegetables and dip.
Any combination of raw carrots, broccoli florets, cucumber slices, celery, zucchini, peppers, and grape tomatoes can satisfy a rumbling stomach.
Enhance the flavor with a plain low-fat cottage cheese dip, Greek yogurt, or hummus.
Turkey Sandwich
When craving a sandwich, a combination of protein and complex carbohydrates from lean protein like turkey and whole grain bread with tomato, lettuce, and a splash of mayo and mustard can satisfy.
Allow enough time to digest, as being too full can inhibit sleep.
Chickpeas, the primary ingredient in hummus, contain tryptophan.
Body In Balance
References
Bandín, C et al. “Meal timing affects glucose tolerance, substrate oxidation, and circadian-related variables: A randomized, crossover trial.” International Journal of Obesity (2005) vol. 39,5 (2015): 828-33. doi:10.1038/ijo.2014.182
Beccuti, Guglielmo, et al. “Timing of food intake: Sounding the alarm about metabolic impairments? A systematic review.” Pharmacological research vol. 125, Pt B (2017): 132-141. doi:10.1016/j.phrs.2017.09.005
Behrouz, Sepide, et al. “The Antioxidant, Anti-Inflammatory, and Immunomodulatory Effects of Camel Milk.” Frontiers in immunology vol. 13 855342. 12 Apr. 2022, doi:10.3389/fimmu.2022.855342
Gallant, Annette, et al. “Nutritional Aspects of Late Eating and Night Eating.” Current obesity reports vol. 3,1 (2014): 101-7. doi:10.1007/s13679-013-0081-8
Stobiecka, Magdalena, et al. “Antioxidant Activity of Milk and Dairy Products.” Animals: an open access journal from MDPI vol. 12,3 245. 20 Jan. 2022, doi:10.3390/ani12030245
Viruses, bacteria, fungi, and protozoa are the microorganisms that naturally live in the digestive tract. Sleep affects gut health and vice versa. A healthy gut microbiota consists of all kinds of microorganisms that produce thousands of compounds and coexist harmoniously. A healthy diet and lifestyle are the biggest factors influencing bacteria variety, and maintaining a varied diet preserves microbiota diversity. Everybody’s gut microbiome is different; the more diverse the gut microbiome, the healthier sleep will be. The Injury Medical Chiropractic and Functional Medicine Clinic Team can develop a personalized nutritional plan to improve gut health and sleep patterns.
Sleep Affects Gut Health
Not having a diverse gut microbiome has been linked to autoimmune diseases, Parkinson’s disease, and mental health issues like anxiety and depression. Not getting healthy sleep is associated with many diseases and disorders, including:
Gastrointestinal disorders
Infections
Diabetes
Cardiovascular disease
Neurological disorders
Anxiety
Depression
Cancer
Changes in sleep patterns influence the central nervous system and the immune system, which affect different organ systems. For example, studies have shown some gastrointestinal disorders, like irritable bowel syndrome – IBS could be associated with increased REM sleep or the fourth part of the sleep cycle when vivid dreaming occurs. In Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis, long-term immune response activation can result in poor sleep, insufficient quality sleep, or other sleep problems. The deepest stages of sleep are when the brain and gut communicate to repair the body, restore nutrients, and remove and release toxins.
Sleep Cycle
During sleep, the immune system produces proteins called cytokines that perform functions during the inflammatory response, either by increasing or blocking inflammation, depending on the body’s needs. Cytokines help promote sleep, fight infection, or stop inflammation in chronic inflammatory diseases like Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis.
Insufficient sleep significantly alters cytokine production, and infection-fighting cells decrease in numbers when sleep deprived, making it harder for the body to fight infections and lessening protection. This increases the inflammatory response and keeps the immune system on.
Chronic or long-term immune response activation can result in sleep disturbances or disorders.
Some disorders include small intestinal bacterial overgrowth and inflammation caused by microbiome abnormalities or dysbiosis.
The gut barrier function begins to malfunction, leading to bacteria and pathogens leaking into blood circulation/leaky gut, triggering immune responses.
Ways to Improve Sleep
One of the main ways to improve sleep quality and gut microbiome health is to practice healthy sleep hygiene. According to the National Sleep Foundation, individuals should:
Nap Smart
Naps can be a great way to refresh the mind and body and replenish energy levels during the day.
The bright lights from phones and screens can make it difficult to fall asleep fully.
Use an alarm clock with a soft night light and keep the bedroom tech-free.
Create Sleep Routine
Take a warm shower, read a book, or do light stretches.
Create a wind-down routine to relax before bed to signal the body that it’s time for sleep.
Avoid Caffeine and Alcohol Before Bed
These substances make it harder for the mind and body to fall or stay asleep.
Food As Medicine
References
Chabé, Magali et al. “Gut Protozoa: Friends or Foes of the Human Gut Microbiota?.” Trends in parasitology vol. 33,12 (2017): 925-934. doi:10.1016/j.pt.2017.08.005
Deng, Feilong, et al. “The gut microbiome of healthy long-living people.” Aging vol. 11,2 (2019): 289-290. doi:10.18632/aging.101771
Gut Bacteria Research: Physicians’ Committee for Responsible Medicine. (2019). “Gut Bacteria: Optimize Gut Health With a Plant-Based Diet,”
Ianiro, Gianluca, et al. “How the gut parasitome affects human health.” Therapeutic advances in gastroenterology vol. 15 17562848221091524. 30 Apr. 2022, doi:10.1177/17562848221091524
Lozupone, Catherine A et al. “Diversity, stability and resilience of the human gut microbiota.” Nature vol. 489,7415 (2012): 220-30. doi:10.1038/nature11550
Sleep and Gut Microbiome Study: PLoS One. (2019). “Gut microbiome diversity is associated with sleep physiology in humans.
Sleep Hygiene Information: National Sleep Foundation. (2019). “Sleep Hygiene.”
Vaishnavi, C. “Translocation of gut flora and its role in sepsis.” Indian journal of medical microbiology vol. 31,4 (2013): 334-42. doi:10.4103/0255-0857.118870
Healthy sleep is vital for having enough energy, thinking clearly, and managing everyday stresses confidently. Chronic unhealthy sleep patterns and/or insomnia can lead to and contribute to various health issues. This includes daytime fatigue, irritability, difficulty concentrating, delayed reaction time, constantly getting sick, and memory problems. Sleeping health problems can get worse with every night of poor rest. Injury Medical Chiropractic and Functional Medicine Clinic provide treatment, training, and tools to realign and relax the body and restore healthy sleep.
Sleeping Health Problems
Lack of sleep disrupts and slows down nerve impulses and transmissions throughout the body. This can lead to health problems that can include:
Excessive fatigue
Brain fog
Slow responses
Physical performance problems
Inability to remember
Low sex drive
Chronic illness
Over time the risk of developing a serious medical condition increases and can include:
Anxiety
Depression
High blood pressure
Diabetes
Weakened immune system
Stroke
Heart attack
Seizures
Staying On
There is some research that insomnia is associated with hyperarousal or the state of staying on. It often starts with a stressful event that sets off the body’s systems, causing the inability to relax completely. Body discomfort and pain symptoms can also present when the mind and body can’t relax. The entire body can tighten/stiffen, causing aches, soreness, and pain. Continuation of sleeping health problems of the cycle leads to more stress.
Chiropractic care, massage, and decompression therapy can help break the cycle. Breaking the process is necessary to help the body recover and rehabilitate properly. Treatment retrains the body to relax; stretching and pulling the muscles increases blood circulation, as well as advanced and improved brain signals telling the body to relax. A chiropractor will evaluate the individuals sleeping patterns and recommend various solutions. The benefits for individuals with sleep issues include:
Alleviates muscle tension.
Stimulates nerve circulation and blood flow.
Relaxes the whole body.
Enhances central nervous system function.
Relieves pain and discomfort.
A chiropractor will also provide the following:
Sleeping position recommendations.
Postural stretches and exercises.
Recommendations on supportive mattresses.
Ergonomics for work, home, and bed.
Chiropractic’s Evolution
References
Hale, Deborah, and Katherine Marshall. “Sleep and Sleep Hygiene.” Home healthcare now vol. 37,4 (2019): 227. doi:10.1097/NHH.0000000000000803
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