Wednesday, July 13, 2011

Health Tips for July 13

Health Tip: Insufficient Sleep Can Be Dangerous

A good night's sleep does much more than help you stay awake through a long day. It actually helps protect your health.

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention lists these problems that can arise as a result of insufficient sleep:

  • Increased risk of chronic diseases, including cardiovascular disease and diabetes.
  • Greater likelihood of becoming obese or overweight.
  • Increased risk of developing depression.
  • Added risk of getting into a motor vehicle accident because of "drowsy driving."

Health Tip: Don't Deny Your Diabetes

"Not me" is a common response to a recent diagnosis of diabetes, the American Diabetes Association says.

But ignoring your illness and refusing active treatment can do nothing but make your condition worse, the association says.

Here are the ADA's suggestions for confronting denial head-on:

  • Create a care plan with clear and realistic goals.
  • Seek the help of a diabetes educator or registered dietician.
  • Get family and friends involved in keeping you motivated.

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