Better sleep is associated with a lower risk of cardiovascular disease, according to researchers who point out that consistent and healthy sleep patterns can improve overall well-being. Individuals struggling with sleep should consider pre-sleep activities and avoidance of stimulation before bedtime. A study published in JAMA Network Open looked at data from over 15,000 midlife and older adults in China and found that those with persistent favorable sleep patterns had a reduced risk of cardiovascular disease, including coronary heart disease and stroke. The study also looked at how sleep patterns and genetic risk interact to impact cardiovascular disease outcomes.
Cardiovascular disease is a major cause of morbidity and mortality globally, and as the burden of cardiovascular disease continues to increase, research into modifiable risk factors for prevention is urgent. Previous research has shown a connection between sleep and heart health, but many studies only used a single measurement without considering changes in sleep patterns over time. A study of Chinese retirees aimed to fill this gap by collecting sleep information from participants at two time points approximately five years apart and prospectively exploring the long-term outcomes of changes in sleep patterns on the subsequent incidence of cardiovascular disease outcomes. The study also investigated how changes in sleep patterns interact with genetic variants related to cardiovascular disease risk.
Experts emphasize the importance of maintaining a consistent sleep schedule to regulate the body’s internal clock and enhance sleep quality. Pre-sleep activities that promote relaxation, such as reading or meditation, can help signal to the body that it is time to wind down for the night. Limiting exposure to screens and bright lights in the evening can also support the natural production of melatonin, the hormone responsible for sleep. Consultation with a healthcare professional, particularly a sleep medicine doctor, is recommended for individuals experiencing persistent sleep difficulties as they can assist in identifying underlying causes and providing personalized treatment options.
Sleep expert Chelsey Borson notes that adequate sleep is crucial for heart health as it allows for recovery and repair of the heart, reducing stress and inflammation. Research shows that individuals getting less than seven hours of sleep per night have a higher risk of developing cardiovascular issues. Dr. Rigved Tadwalkar, a cardiologist, highlights the importance of regulating hormones that influence blood pressure, inflammation, and blood sugar levels for heart health. He advises maintaining a consistent sleep schedule, avoiding stimulating activities before bedtime, and creating an optimal sleep environment by keeping the room cool, dark, and quiet.
Studies suggest that maintaining healthy sleep patterns over time is associated with a lower risk of cardiovascular disease and coronary heart disease, although research specifically on older adults with natural sleep patterns is needed. Lifestyle and genetic factors, in addition to sleep, play a role in cardiovascular disease risk, with research showing that people with healthy lifestyles have a lower risk of coronary heart disease and stroke. The study of Chinese retirees aimed to fill a gap in the research by exploring how sleep patterns and genetic risk interact to impact cardiovascular disease outcomes in older adults, providing valuable insights into the role of sleep in heart health.