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Sleep Experts Reveal How Body Temperature Regulates Restful Sleep

Discover how your body temperature impacts your sleep. Simple remedies can help you wake up refreshed.

In this image there is a dog sleeping on a bed. There is a pillow below its head.
In this image there is a dog sleeping on a bed. There is a pillow below its head.

Sleep Experts Reveal How Body Temperature Regulates Restful Sleep

Sleep experts share insights into our body's temperature regulation during sleep and its impact on restfulness. A physician from the University Clinic Heidelberg's sleep lab explains why we can't simply make up for lost sleep.

Our body temperature plays a crucial role in our sleep cycle. As night falls, our core body temperature naturally drops, preparing us for rest. This process involves various mechanisms, including sweating, muscle twitching, and blood vessel dilation and constriction, to maintain a constant internal temperature. Each cell in our body has a specific temperature at any given time, demonstrating the precision of this regulation.

However, external factors can disrupt this delicate balance. Heavy blankets or open windows can interfere with our body's thermostat, leading to discomfort and waking us up. To combat nighttime arousal buildup, typically between 10 PM and 2 AM, simple remedies like a warm shower or a cup of warm milk can help.

Understanding our body's temperature regulation during sleep can help us create a more comfortable sleep environment. While it's tempting to think we can make up for a sleepless night by sleeping longer the next day, Dr. Mavi Schellenberg from the University Clinic Heidelberg's sleep lab assures us that this is not the case. Prioritizing good sleep habits and a suitable sleep environment is key to maintaining our overall health and well-being.

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