As summer nights get hotter throughout the months, the changing climate may be to blame for increased lethargy, agitation and an overall lack of sleep.
According to a new study from Science Advances, data collected by researchers at the University of California, San Diego, show that higher temperatures at night can cause subsequent health impacts, from diabetes and obesity to an increased risk of cardiovascular disease. Those primarily impacted by the data were lower-income participants and the elderly.
To manage the heat before bed, try some of these tips:
- Finish exercising or any rigorous activities three to four hours before bed.
- For a quick cool-down, run the insides of your wrists under cool water for about 30 seconds. This area is where your blood flows closest to your skin and helps prevent overheating.
- Change out heavy, winter sheets for light and airy ones. Lighter fabrics, including with clothes, will help to keep you cool at night.
- If you wake up hot, flip your pillow. The side closest to the bed will be cold and help you get back to sleep faster.
- Consider purchasing an oscillating fan for the warmer nights. The fan keeps the temperature down by constantly moving the air around in your bedroom.
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