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In this episode of Healthy California, we explore a crucial yet often overlooked aspect of health: sleep. We spend nearly a third of our lives sleeping, but are we doing it right? Discover why sleep is vital, what happens when you don’t get enough, and how to optimize your rest for better overall well-being.

Key Topics Covered:

✅ The Critical Role of Sleep

• How sleep impacts physical and mental health
• The role of sleep in recovery, memory, and brain detoxification
• Why sleep should be a non-negotiable priority

✅ The Hidden Dangers of Sleep Deprivation

• Increased risk of chronic diseases, including heart disease and diabetes
• The connection between poor sleep, obesity, and neurological disorders
• How lack of sleep affects mood, cognitive function, and accident risk

✅ Understanding Insomnia & Its Causes

• Why 60 million adults struggle with insomnia but few seek help
• The difference between sleep-onset and sleep-maintenance insomnia
• Common triggers: Stress, anxiety, pain, caffeine, and lifestyle habits

✅ Sleep Apnea & Its Impact on Brain Health

• Why oxygen deprivation during sleep is dangerous
• The link between sleep apnea and cognitive decline
• The importance of diagnosis, CPAP compliance, and weight management

✅ Common Sleep Disruptors

• Restless leg syndrome, hormonal imbalances, and alcohol consumption
• The role of blue light exposure in melatonin suppression
• How aging affects sleep quality and what to do about it

✅ The Science of Sleep Cycles

• Understanding REM and non-REM sleep
• How deep sleep supports cognitive function and immune health
• The importance of maintaining a consistent sleep schedule

✅ Strategies for Better Sleep

• Establishing a nightly routine to promote restful sleep
• Managing stress and balancing cortisol levels
• Creating an optimal sleep environment (temperature, noise, and light control)
• How diet and exercise influence sleep patterns

✅ Natural Sleep Aids & Supplements

• The benefits of magnesium for relaxation and muscle function
• Melatonin supplementation: How and when to use it
• Adaptogenic herbs like ashwagandha for stress reduction
• Herbal teas and other natural remedies to promote sleep

Final Takeaways:
Sleep is a cornerstone of health and longevity. Prioritizing quality sleep can transform your well-being, boost cognitive function, and enhance overall vitality. Identify sleep disruptors, make necessary changes, and take steps toward healthier sleep habits.

I want to share a helpful resource with you—a free health questionnaire designed to pinpoint the areas in your life that need focus for optimal wellness. If you're interested, simply click the link in my show notes or visit www.heal-throughfood.com to access it.

Thank you for listening to Healthy California.

If you have tried all my suggestions and are still having trouble with your health, and would like an appointment with me, please email me, text, or call me via the contact information below.

My contact:

Linda Brown, MPT, Doctoral Candidate Functional Nutrition

916-628-6416

linda@heal-throughfood.com

www.heal-throughfood.com