Message from Dr. Cherry: Sleep

You may not give much thought to your sleep habits – unless, of course, you’re not getting enough sleep these days and are finding yourself suffering from the effects of sleep deprivation, such as fatigue, lack of concentration and sleepiness throughout the day. But did you know that the quality and the amount of sleep you get could directly affect your health, especially as you get older?  Medical scientists are learning that sleep may provide a key to the health and wellbeing of older adults. As we age, our sleep patterns and the quality of sleep changes.

For older people with health problems, their condition can have an impact on their sleep; for healthy adults, sleep deprivation can actually increase their risk of certain diseases, such as type 2 diabetes. In fact, according to the National Sleep Foundation, “sleep deprivation has been linked to health problems such as obesity and high blood pressure, negative mood and behavior, decreased productivity, and safety issues in the home, on the job and on the road.”  

As a sleep-deprived society, Americans are reaching more and more for prescription medications for help – but not without inherent risks. The sedating or calming effects of sleep aids may lead to falls for those having to get up in the middle of the night and may cause daytime sleepiness or forgetfulness. More shockingly, some people have even reported sleepwalking and times in which they got behind the wheel and actually drove while using sleeping pills!  

Below you’ll find links to my articles and television programs.  It is my hope that  you will read all the information carefully, and that you will apply it to your own health.  Also, pray about each topic and discuss any concerns with your doctor.  Finally, be sure to share this information with your loved ones so that they, too, can discover their Pathway to Healing.  

In His Divine Health,

Reginald B. Cherry, M.D.