Signs of sleep deprivation - You may know that you are obviously suffering from sleep deprivation as you cannot easily get to sleep and stay asleep!

Some people may think that they are getting enough sleep but feel sleepy during the day and whilst driving, they feel irritable and have difficulty remembering things etc.

There is evidence that lack of sufficient sleep can cause insulin resistance so that sugar levels will be higher.Enough sleep is crucial to lowering blood sugar levels so let’s look at how you can improve your sleep:

• Staying clear of TV, mobile phones and computers for at least an hour before going to bed
• Make your bedroom as comfortable, quiet and as dark as possible
• Ensure that the ventilation is good and that the room isn’t too warm
• Perhaps have a relaxing, warm bath before bed
• Sprinkle lavender oil on your pillow and put some on your wrists and neck
• Don’t do vigorous exercise before bed.  Some seated yoga forward bends are good for enhancing sleep
• Don’t drink coffee or caffeinated drinks in the evening and only have alcohol with a meal
• Eat your evening meal before 8 p.m
• Quit smoking
• Listen to relaxing music while in bed and practise relaxation techniques
• Find a way of dealing with stress i.e., yoga, tai chi, mindfulness, hypnotherapy