Dr. Wendy Troxel’s research showed the importance of quality slumber
By Murray Sherriffs
Getting a full eight hours of sleep and you don’t feel rested?
Some sleep experts say it’s not just about how much shuteye you get.
Dr. Wendy Troxel, a licensed clinical psychologist and senior behavioral scientist at RAND in Utah says that the “really important distinction” lies between quantity and quality of sleep.
She says that many factors contribute to poor sleep quality: drinking coffee late in the day, being stressed or worried about something and getting on your phone before going to sleep can encourage fragmented sleep.
Her research confirms that women need about 15 minutes more sleep than men.
Women are twice as likely to have insomnia and their risk for sleep disturbances “skyrockets” during menopause.
Sleep-deprivation impairs judgment.
Quality sleep hinges on following a healthy lifestyle and a consistent sleep-wake schedule.
Eating a nutritious diet, free of foods that cause upset stomach or indigestion—especially in the late evening hours—can help improve sleep quality.
Exercise helps to promote quality sleep but avoid vigorous physical activity too close to bedtime.