Are you looking for inflammation fighting tips to feel better and improve your overall health? You’re not alone. Inflammation is a natural process that helps your body heal from injuries or infections. But when this process becomes chronic, it can lead to a wide range of health problems. Understanding inflammation, its causes, and how to manage it is crucial for maintaining well-being.
What is Inflammation?
Imagine your body as a complex city with a robust defense system. When an injury or infection occurs, it’s like a fire breaking out. Your body’s defense system, much like firefighters, rushes to the scene to contain the damage. This rapid response involves sending white blood cells to the site of the problem, resulting in redness, swelling, pain, and sometimes heat. This is known as acute inflammation, and it’s a normal, temporary response to a specific event.
Chronic Inflammation: A Silent Threat
However, what happens when the “firefighters” don’t get the signal to stand down? This is where chronic inflammation becomes a concern. Instead of being a short-term response, chronic inflammation persists over a long period, even when there’s no obvious injury or infection. It’s like the alarm system in your body constantly sounding, even when there’s no fire. This persistent inflammation can quietly damage your tissues, cells, and organs, contributing to a variety of health issues.
The Risks of Chronic Inflammation
Chronic inflammation has been linked to a growing list of serious health problems. These include:
- Heart Disease: Inflammation can damage blood vessels, increasing the risk of heart attacks and strokes.
- Arthritis: Chronic inflammation is a major contributor to joint pain and stiffness in conditions like rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis.
- Diabetes: Inflammation can interfere with insulin sensitivity, increasing the risk of developing type 2 diabetes.
- Cancer: Inflammation has been linked to the development and progression of various cancers.
- Autoimmune Diseases: Chronic inflammation can trigger or worsen autoimmune conditions, where the body’s immune system attacks its own healthy cells.
- Neurodegenerative Diseases: Inflammation may play a role in Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, and other neurological disorders.
- Mental Health: Chronic inflammation can contribute to depression, anxiety, and other mental health challenges.
While inflammation is a natural part of the healing process, it’s essential to address chronic inflammation before it becomes a significant health concern. In the next section, we’ll delve into practical lifestyle tips that can help you reduce inflammation and support your overall well-being.
7 Lifestyle Tips to Combat Inflammation
Now that you understand the basics of inflammation and its potential impact on your health, let’s dive into actionable steps you can take to fight it. These seven lifestyle tips can help reduce inflammation naturally and promote overall well-being.
1. Eat an Anti-Inflammatory Diet: Fueling Your Body for Healing
You’ve heard the saying, “You are what you eat.” This couldn’t be truer when it comes to inflammation. The foods you choose can either fuel or fight inflammation in your body. Here’s how to create an anti-inflammatory diet that supports your health:
- Prioritize Whole Foods: Focus on eating plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes, and lean protein sources. These foods are packed with nutrients that can help reduce inflammation.
- Limit Processed Foods: Processed meats, sugary drinks, refined grains, and unhealthy fats can contribute to inflammation. Cut back on these as much as possible.
- Load Up on Antioxidants: Fruits and vegetables bursting with vibrant colors are rich in antioxidants, which protect your cells from damage caused by free radicals. Free radicals can contribute to inflammation. Think of antioxidants as your body’s personal army fighting off inflammation.
- Embrace Healthy Fats: Omega-3 fatty acids, found in fatty fish, flaxseeds, chia seeds, and walnuts, have powerful anti-inflammatory properties. Aim to include these foods in your diet at least twice a week.
- Spice It Up!: Incorporate anti-inflammatory spices like turmeric, ginger, cinnamon, and garlic into your meals. Not only do they add flavor, but they also have medicinal properties that can help reduce inflammation.
2. Move Your Body Regularly: Exercise for Better Health
Regular exercise is a powerful tool for reducing inflammation. When you move your body, it promotes healthy blood flow, improves lymphatic drainage (which helps remove waste products), and releases endorphins that can have mood-boosting effects.
- Find Activities You Enjoy: The key to sticking with an exercise routine is finding activities that you genuinely enjoy. If you hate running, don’t force yourself! Explore options like dancing, swimming, hiking, yoga, or cycling.
- Start Slowly and Gradually Increase: Don’t jump into a strenuous workout program right away. Begin with short sessions and gradually increase the duration and intensity as you build stamina.
- Mix It Up: Combine cardio exercises (running, swimming, dancing) with strength training (weightlifting, resistance bands, bodyweight exercises) for a well-rounded approach.
3. Manage Stress: Finding Peace for a Healthier You
Stress is a significant contributor to chronic inflammation. When you’re stressed, your body releases hormones like cortisol, which can trigger inflammatory responses. Managing stress is essential for reducing inflammation and supporting your overall well-being.
- Practice Relaxation Techniques: Mindfulness meditation, deep breathing exercises, yoga, or tai chi are all excellent ways to calm your mind and body. Even spending a few minutes each day practicing these techniques can make a difference.
- Prioritize Sleep: When you’re sleep-deprived, your body produces more inflammatory chemicals. Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep each night.
- Connect with Loved Ones: Spending time with friends and family can provide emotional support and help reduce stress. Strong social connections can be a powerful buffer against inflammation.
4. Limit Alcohol and Smoking: Making Healthy Choices
Excessive alcohol consumption and smoking are both known to increase inflammation in the body.
- Reduce Alcohol Intake: If you choose to drink alcohol, do so in moderation. For women, that’s generally one drink per day, and for men, it’s up to two drinks per day.
- Quit Smoking: Smoking is a major risk factor for chronic inflammation. If you smoke, quitting is one of the best things you can do for your health.
5. Stay Hydrated: Keep Your Body Flowing
Water is essential for many bodily functions, including flushing out toxins and supporting your immune system. Dehydration can contribute to inflammation.
- Drink Plenty of Water: Aim to drink at least eight glasses of water per day. You may need more if you’re exercising heavily or in hot weather.
- Choose Water over Sugary Drinks: Swap soda, juice, and other sugary drinks for water.
6. Get Enough Vitamin D: Sunshine for Your Health
Vitamin D plays a role in regulating inflammation and immunity. Getting enough vitamin D can be beneficial for reducing inflammation.
- Safe Sun Exposure: Spending a moderate amount of time in the sun can help your body produce vitamin D. However, be sure to protect your skin from sun damage by wearing sunscreen and limiting exposure during peak sun hours.
- Consider Supplements: If you’re concerned about your vitamin D levels, talk to your doctor about whether a vitamin D supplement is right for you.
7. Consult a Healthcare Professional: Your Partner in Health
If you have concerns about chronic inflammation or are experiencing persistent symptoms, it’s essential to consult with your doctor or a registered dietitian. They can assess your individual needs and provide personalized advice.
- Discuss Your Concerns: Talk to your doctor about your symptoms and any potential contributing factors to inflammation.
- Get a Comprehensive Evaluation: Your doctor may recommend blood tests or other assessments to check for underlying conditions that could be causing inflammation.
By making gradual changes to your lifestyle and focusing on these seven tips, you can actively reduce inflammation and support your overall well-being. Remember, it’s a journey, not a race. Celebrate small victories and prioritize a healthy lifestyle for a happier and healthier future.
Diet: Fueling Your Body for Anti-Inflammation
You’ve heard it said: “You are what you eat.” This is particularly true when it comes to inflammation. Your diet can either fuel or fight the inflammatory process in your body. Embracing an anti-inflammatory diet is like giving your body the tools it needs to heal and thrive.
Anti-Inflammatory Foods: Your Body’s Superheroes
Think of anti-inflammatory foods as your body’s personal superheroes, fighting off inflammation and promoting a healthier you. Let’s meet some of these dietary heroes:
- Colorful Fruits and Vegetables: Think berries, leafy greens, broccoli, sweet potatoes, and bell peppers. These are packed with antioxidants, which protect cells from damage caused by free radicals—tiny molecules that can contribute to inflammation.
- Fatty Fish: Salmon, tuna, mackerel, and sardines are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which are known for their anti-inflammatory effects. They help reduce inflammation throughout the body, especially in the joints.
- Whole Grains: Choose brown rice, quinoa, oats, and whole-wheat bread over refined grains. Whole grains provide fiber, which can help regulate blood sugar levels and reduce inflammation.
- Legumes: Beans, lentils, chickpeas, and peas are excellent sources of fiber, protein, and antioxidants. They can help regulate blood sugar levels and fight inflammation.
- Nuts and Seeds: Almonds, walnuts, chia seeds, and flaxseeds are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, and fiber. They offer a healthy snack or addition to meals.
- Herbs and Spices: Turmeric, ginger, garlic, cinnamon, and rosemary have potent anti-inflammatory properties. Add them to your dishes for a flavorful boost and a health advantage.
Foods to Limit or Avoid: Pro-Inflammatory Culprits
Just as there are foods that fight inflammation, there are also foods that can contribute to it. Here are some culprits to watch out for:
- Processed Foods: Processed meats, packaged snacks, and fast food are often high in unhealthy fats, sugar, and sodium, which can increase inflammation.
- Sugary Drinks: Soda, juice, and sweetened beverages can spike blood sugar levels and contribute to inflammation.
- Refined Grains: White bread, white rice, and pasta made from refined grains can cause rapid spikes in blood sugar, increasing inflammation.
- Saturated and Trans Fats: These unhealthy fats are found in red meat, butter, and fried foods. They can increase inflammation and raise the risk of heart disease.
- Excessive Alcohol: Moderate alcohol consumption may be okay, but excessive drinking can increase inflammation in the body.
Creating a Delicious Anti-Inflammatory Diet: Tips for Success
Here are some practical tips to make adopting an anti-inflammatory diet easier:
- Focus on Whole Foods First: Make fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein sources the foundation of your diet.
- Read Food Labels: Pay attention to ingredient lists and nutritional information. Look for products with minimal processing and added sugars.
- Cook More Meals at Home: This gives you more control over ingredients and portion sizes.
- Experiment with New Flavors: Add herbs and spices to your meals for extra flavor and anti-inflammatory benefits.
- Listen to Your Body: Pay attention to how different foods make you feel. If you notice that certain foods trigger inflammation or digestive issues, limit or avoid them.
- Make Gradual Changes: Don’t try to overhaul your diet overnight. Start by making small changes and gradually incorporating more anti-inflammatory foods.
By making mindful choices about the foods you eat, you can effectively support your body’s fight against inflammation. The power to reduce inflammation and improve your health is literally in your hands.
Exercise: Moving Your Body for Better Health
You’ve heard that exercise is good for you, but did you know it can be a powerful tool for fighting inflammation? Regular physical activity can help reduce inflammation throughout the body, promoting overall health and well-being.
How Exercise Benefits Your Body
- Improved Blood Flow: Exercise gets your blood pumping, delivering oxygen and nutrients to your tissues and organs. This helps to remove inflammatory byproducts and support healing.
- Enhanced Lymphatic Drainage: Your lymphatic system is a network of vessels that helps remove waste products and toxins from your body. Exercise encourages lymphatic flow, aiding in the removal of inflammatory substances.
- Reduced Stress Hormones: Exercise is a natural stress reliever. When you exercise, your body releases endorphins, which have mood-boosting and pain-reducing effects. This can help to reduce the release of stress hormones like cortisol, which can contribute to inflammation.
- Increased Muscle Mass: Strength training helps build muscle mass, which can improve insulin sensitivity and reduce inflammation.
- Improved Sleep Quality: Regular exercise can promote better sleep, which is essential for reducing inflammation.
Types of Exercise for Fighting Inflammation
While any type of physical activity can be beneficial, some forms of exercise are particularly effective for reducing inflammation.
- Cardiovascular Exercise: Activities like walking, running, swimming, biking, and dancing get your heart rate up and improve blood flow. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity cardio most days of the week.
- Strength Training: Lifting weights, using resistance bands, or doing bodyweight exercises helps build muscle mass, which can reduce inflammation and improve insulin sensitivity.
- Yoga and Pilates: These practices combine stretching, strengthening, and mindfulness, offering benefits for both physical and mental health.
Finding a Routine That Works for You
Finding an exercise routine that you enjoy and can stick with is key. Here are some tips:
- Start Gradually: Begin with short sessions and gradually increase the duration and intensity as you get stronger.
- Listen to Your Body: If you feel pain, stop and rest.
- Vary Your Activities: Mix up your routine to keep things interesting and challenge different muscle groups.
- Find an Exercise Buddy: Exercising with a friend can make it more enjoyable and motivating.
- Make It a Habit: Try to incorporate exercise into your daily routine. Even short bursts of activity can be beneficial.
Exercise is an essential part of a healthy lifestyle and can significantly impact your body’s ability to manage inflammation. By finding a routine you enjoy and making it a regular part of your life, you can reap the rewards of a stronger, healthier body.
Stress Management: Finding Peace for a Healthier You
In today’s fast-paced world, stress is a constant companion for many of us. It’s easy to feel overwhelmed by deadlines, responsibilities, and the demands of daily life. What you might not realize is that chronic stress can have a significant impact on your body’s inflammatory response.
The Stress-Inflammation Connection
When you’re stressed, your body releases hormones like cortisol, adrenaline, and cytokines. These hormones are designed to help you cope with short-term stressors, but when they’re chronically elevated, they can trigger inflammatory responses in your body.
- Chronic Stress: Sustained exposure to stress hormones can lead to prolonged inflammation, which can contribute to a wide range of health problems.
- The Body’s Response: Your body’s natural defense system goes into overdrive, leading to a heightened inflammatory response that can impact various organs and tissues.
Stress Management Techniques for Reducing Inflammation
The good news is that you can learn to manage stress effectively and reduce its impact on your body’s inflammatory response. Here are some practical techniques to incorporate into your routine:
Mindfulness Meditation: Cultivating Calm
Mindfulness meditation is a simple yet powerful practice that involves focusing your attention on the present moment without judgment.
- How it Works: It encourages you to observe your thoughts, feelings, and bodily sensations without getting caught up in them.
- Benefits for Inflammation: Mindfulness meditation has been shown to reduce stress hormones, lower blood pressure, and improve immune function, all of which can help reduce inflammation.
Deep Breathing Exercises: Releasing Tension
Deep breathing exercises are a quick and easy way to calm your nervous system and reduce stress.
- How it Works: When you take deep, slow breaths, you send signals to your brain to relax.
- Benefits for Inflammation: Deep breathing exercises can lower blood pressure, reduce stress hormones, and improve heart rate variability, all of which can help combat inflammation.
Yoga: Moving Mind and Body
Yoga is a practice that combines physical postures (asanas), breathing techniques (pranayama), and meditation.
- How it Works: It helps to stretch and strengthen muscles, improve flexibility, and reduce stress.
- Benefits for Inflammation: Yoga has been shown to reduce inflammation, improve mood, and enhance sleep quality.
Other Stress Management Strategies
Beyond these core techniques, consider these additional strategies to manage stress effectively:
- Spend Time in Nature: Being in nature can have a calming effect on your mind and body.
- Listen to Music: Listening to relaxing music can help reduce stress and promote relaxation.
- Engage in Hobbies: Pursuing hobbies that you enjoy can help you unwind and de-stress.
- Get Enough Sleep: Prioritize getting 7-9 hours of quality sleep each night.
- Connect with Loved Ones: Spending time with people you care about can provide emotional support and reduce stress.
- Seek Professional Help: If you’re struggling to manage stress, don’t hesitate to seek help from a therapist or counselor.
Managing stress is an essential part of reducing inflammation and promoting overall well-being. Find techniques that work for you and make them a regular part of your routine. Your mind and body will thank you for it.
Sleep: Rest and Repair for Optimal Health
You might think of sleep as a time to simply rest your body, but it’s much more than that. While you sleep, your body is hard at work repairing and rejuvenating itself. And guess what? Sleep plays a vital role in managing inflammation and supporting your overall health.
The Importance of Sleep for Inflammation
- Sleep and Inflammation: During sleep, your body releases proteins called cytokines, some of which have anti-inflammatory effects.
- Sleep Deprivation: When you don’t get enough sleep, your body produces more inflammatory cytokines. This can contribute to chronic inflammation and a weakened immune system.
Benefits of Restorative Sleep
Getting enough quality sleep can significantly reduce inflammation and improve your overall health.
- Reduced Inflammation: Adequate sleep helps your body regulate its inflammatory response, reducing the risk of chronic inflammation.
- Improved Immune Function: Sleep deprivation can weaken your immune system, making you more susceptible to infections and illnesses.
- Enhanced Cognitive Function: Sleep is essential for memory consolidation, learning, and overall cognitive function.
- Improved Mood: Sleep deprivation can contribute to mood swings, irritability, and depression.
- Hormonal Balance: Sleep plays a vital role in regulating hormones, including those involved in appetite, stress, and growth.
Tips for Improving Sleep Hygiene
Here are some tips to help you create a sleep-friendly environment and improve your sleep quality:
- Establish a Regular Sleep Schedule: Go to bed and wake up around the same time each day, even on weekends, to regulate your body’s natural sleep-wake cycle.
- Create a Relaxing Bedtime Routine: Wind down an hour or two before bed by taking a warm bath, reading a book, listening to calming music, or practicing relaxation techniques.
- Make Your Bedroom a Sleep Sanctuary: Keep your bedroom dark, quiet, and cool. Consider using blackout curtains, earplugs, or a white noise machine to block out distractions.
- Avoid Caffeine and Alcohol Before Bed: Caffeine and alcohol can interfere with sleep.
- Limit Screen Time Before Bed: The blue light emitted from electronic devices can interfere with melatonin production, a hormone that regulates sleep.
- Get Regular Exercise: Exercise can promote better sleep, but avoid exercising too close to bedtime.
- Talk to Your Doctor: If you have persistent sleep problems, talk to your doctor to rule out any underlying medical conditions.
Sleep is an essential pillar of overall health and plays a significant role in managing inflammation. Prioritize getting enough quality sleep to support your body’s natural healing processes and enhance your overall well-being.
Supplements: Exploring Additional Support
In addition to the lifestyle changes we’ve discussed, you might be curious about supplements for inflammation management. While a healthy diet and lifestyle are essential, supplements can offer additional support in certain cases. It’s crucial to remember that supplements should not replace a healthy lifestyle. They should be viewed as an addition to a holistic approach to reducing inflammation.
Popular Anti-Inflammatory Supplements
Here are some popular supplements that have shown potential benefits for reducing inflammation:
- Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Found in fatty fish, flaxseeds, chia seeds, and walnuts, omega-3s are essential for reducing inflammation throughout the body. They help regulate the production of inflammatory molecules.
- Curcumin: The active ingredient in turmeric, curcumin is a powerful anti-inflammatory compound. It has been shown to reduce inflammation in the joints, digestive tract, and other parts of the body.
- Vitamin D: This sunshine vitamin plays a role in regulating inflammation and immune function. Low vitamin D levels have been linked to increased inflammation.
Considerations When Using Supplements
Here are some important factors to consider when using supplements:
- Talk to Your Doctor: Always consult your doctor before taking any new supplements, especially if you have existing health conditions or are taking medications. Supplements can interact with certain medications or worsen existing conditions.
- Dosage: Follow the recommended dosage on the supplement label or as advised by your doctor. Too much of a supplement can be harmful.
- Quality: Look for reputable brands that use high-quality ingredients. Check for third-party testing to ensure purity and potency.
- Potential Side Effects: Be aware of potential side effects associated with any supplement you take.
Supplements can offer additional support for managing inflammation, but they are not a cure-all. Prioritize making healthy lifestyle changes, such as eating a balanced diet, exercising regularly, managing stress, and getting enough sleep. If you are considering supplements, consult with your doctor to ensure they are right for you and to discuss any potential interactions with medications or existing conditions.
FAQ: Addressing Common Questions about Inflammation
You’ve learned about inflammation, its causes, and how to manage it through lifestyle changes. Now, let’s address some common questions about inflammation that you might have.
What are the common symptoms of chronic inflammation?
Chronic inflammation often doesn’t have obvious signs or symptoms, but there are some clues that might indicate a problem. Common symptoms include:
- Fatigue: Feeling tired or drained, even after getting enough sleep.
- Joint Pain: Aching, stiffness, or tenderness in your joints.
- Digestive Issues: Indigestion, heartburn, bloating, or diarrhea.
- Skin Problems: Acne, eczema, or psoriasis.
- Frequent Infections: Getting sick more often than usual.
- Weight Gain: Difficulty losing weight or unexplained weight gain.
It’s important to note that these symptoms could be due to various causes. If you experience any of these symptoms, consult with your doctor for a proper diagnosis.
Can food allergies trigger inflammation?
Yes, food allergies can definitely trigger an inflammatory response in the body. When you’re allergic to a particular food, your immune system overreacts to it, causing a release of inflammatory chemicals that can lead to symptoms like hives, swelling, digestive issues, and even anaphylaxis (a severe allergic reaction).
Are there specific foods that cause inflammation?
While the concept of “inflammatory foods” is not scientifically proven, certain dietary choices can contribute to increased inflammation in the body. Foods that are often linked to inflammation include:
- Processed Foods: Processed meats, packaged snacks, and fast food are often high in unhealthy fats, sugar, and sodium, which can increase inflammation.
- Sugary Drinks: Soda, juice, and sweetened beverages can spike blood sugar levels and contribute to inflammation.
- Refined Grains: White bread, white rice, and pasta made from refined grains can cause rapid spikes in blood sugar, increasing inflammation.
- Saturated and Trans Fats: These unhealthy fats are found in red meat, butter, and fried foods. They can increase inflammation and raise the risk of heart disease.
- Excessive Alcohol: Moderate alcohol consumption may be okay, but excessive drinking can increase inflammation in the body.
It’s important to note that everyone’s body is different. What triggers inflammation in one person may not affect another. The best way to determine if certain foods are contributing to your inflammation is to experiment with eliminating them from your diet and see how you feel.
Remember, if you have concerns about inflammation or are experiencing persistent symptoms, consult with your doctor for personalized advice and guidance.
Conclusion: Taking Control of Your Health
As you’ve discovered, inflammation is a complex process with a significant impact on your overall health and well-being. While it’s a natural part of the healing process, chronic inflammation can contribute to a wide range of diseases and health concerns.
The Power of Lifestyle Changes
The good news is that you have the power to reduce inflammation and support your body’s natural healing processes. By making gradual, sustainable changes to your lifestyle, you can significantly improve your health and reduce your risk of chronic inflammation.
- Prioritize a Healthy Diet: Focus on consuming anti-inflammatory foods like fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes, and lean protein sources. Limit processed foods, sugary drinks, and unhealthy fats.
- Make Exercise a Regular Habit: Find activities you enjoy and incorporate them into your routine. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise most days of the week.
- Manage Stress Effectively: Practice relaxation techniques like mindfulness meditation, deep breathing exercises, yoga, or spending time in nature.
- Get Enough Quality Sleep: Prioritize getting 7-9 hours of restorative sleep each night.
- Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day.
- Consider Supplements: If you are considering supplements, talk to your doctor first to ensure they are right for you.
Remember, making healthy lifestyle changes is a journey, not a destination. Focus on making gradual, sustainable changes and celebrate small victories along the way.
Holistic Approach
To effectively manage inflammation, adopting a holistic approach is key. This means considering all aspects of your health, including your diet, exercise, stress management, sleep, and overall lifestyle choices. By taking a comprehensive approach to your health, you can create a foundation for reducing inflammation and promoting long-term well-being.
Take charge of your health today, and you’ll be amazed at the positive impact it can have on your life.
Resources
To learn more about reducing inflammation and making healthy lifestyle choices, explore these valuable resources:
- Dietary Guidelines for Americans: This resource from the U.S. Department of Agriculture provides evidence-based recommendations for healthy eating patterns to promote overall health and reduce the risk of chronic diseases. https://www.dietaryguidelines.gov/
- Understanding Inflammation and Its Implications: This article from InformedHealth.org delves into the nature of inflammation, explaining it as the body’s immune response to irritants like germs or foreign objects. It outlines common causes, symptoms, and the body’s general responses to inflammation. The piece also discusses chronic inflammatory diseases and their long-term effects. Discover insights into inflammation and its impact on health.
- Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans: Learn about the recommended amounts of physical activity for different age groups and the many health benefits of regular exercise. https://health.gov/our-work/physical-activity/current-guidelines
- Effective Stress Management Techniques: This CDC page discusses the importance of managing stress to prevent long-term health issues. It highlights how stress affects daily life and offers practical strategies for coping, such as mindfulness, physical activity, and maintaining social connections. Discover insights on managing stress effectively.
- Sleep and Sleep Disorders: This resource from the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke offers information on the importance of sleep, common sleep disorders, and tips for improving sleep hygiene. https://www.ninds.nih.gov/Disorders/Patient-Caregiver-Education/Understanding-Sleep
