Ask the Experts

By: Red Hot Mamas

Published: November 15, 2011

Our experts Dr. Mache Seibel, Karen Giblin, Dr. Michael Goodman and Dr. Mary Jane Minkin field questions from our members. Submit your question.

Dear Red Hot Mamas Experts,

I work 45 hours per week and it’s wearing on me because I can’t get a good night’s sleep. Should I start taking sleeping pills? Something herbal?

Thank you,

J

---

Dear J,

Sleep is really an important issue and one you can do some things to improve your rest. One way is to begin is with a sleep diary. There are things to record like when you go to bed, what you are eating, medications your are taking and other things. You can get a free download of one at www.doctorseibel.com. Show that to your doctor at your next visit after you fill it in and it will help see where the problem lies. Next make sure you wind down at night and do only relaxing things for at least 1 hour before bedtime – no TV or computer. Just relax, listen to favorite music (preferably relaxing) or visit. Get room-darkening shades, try to eat earlier in the evening, no caffeine after 6 pm, limit alcohol at night. There is a lot to be done to optimize sleep. If you would like a deeper discussion of how to sleep better, you can get my Sleep Better CD. I hope this helps you. Poor sleep contributes to high blood pressure, diabetes and heart disease so it’s great you are finding a way to improve yours.

Good Health to You!

Red Hot Mamas Experts