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6 Reasons Why You Can't Get Good Sleep
Written by Dennis Michael Lynch.
In partnership with
THE IMPORTANCE OF SLEEP SHOULD NEVER BE NEGLECTED
Why Can’t You Sleep? Six Surprising Factors Keeping You Awake
Prior to making documentaries and being on TV as a political contributor to Fox News and then the host of Dennis Michael Lynch: UNFILTERED on Newsmax, I made medical videos that played on ABC NEWS, WebMD, and AOL. In doing so, I had the pleasure, and the honor, to interview some of the most impressive doctors in the world. Throughout all the hundreds of interviews, the one recurring theme to good health was getting adequate sleep.
Sleep is the cornerstone of health, yet many struggle to catch those elusive Z’s. For people over 50, insufficient sleep increases risks of heart disease, diabetes, obesity, cognitive decline, and weakened immunity. It can worsen mood disorders and impair memory, raising chances of accidents and falls. Prioritizing sleep is critical for health. According to Johns Hopkins Medicine, beyond the usual suspects like stress or caffeine, six surprising factors could be sabotaging your slumber. Understanding these culprits—and the role of a simple blood test—can help you reclaim restful nights.
Your Bed Partner’s Impact
Positive daytime interactions with your partner can improve sleep, especially for women, says Johns Hopkins sleep expert Rachel E. Salas, M.D. Conversely, men who sleep well report happier partner interactions the next day. A sleep buddy can foster security, but restless movements or snoring may signal sleep apnea, a serious condition requiring medical attention. Harmonious relationships and addressing sleep disorders are key to better rest.Lack of a Sleep Uniform
Salas emphasizes the importance of a “sleep uniform”—even if it’s just your birthday suit. Changing into designated sleepwear signals your brain it’s time to wind down. This ritual creates a psychological cue, helping you transition from wakefulness to sleep. Consistency in this practice can enhance your body’s readiness for rest.Hot Showers Before Bed
A steamy shower or bath before bed raises your core body temperature, warns Johns Hopkins expert Charlene E. Gamaldo, M.D. Since body temperature naturally drops at night, this spike delays your ability to fall asleep. Pairing a late workout with a hot shower compounds the issue, as exercise boosts alertness. Opt for cooler showers and earlier workouts to align with your body’s sleep rhythm.Smoking’s Stimulant Effect
Nicotine, a stimulant, disrupts sleep quality, with smokers waking more frequently and reporting less refreshing rest. Gamaldo notes smokers are four times more likely to experience poor sleep than nonsmokers. Quitting is tough, but the initial withdrawal period paves the way for improved sleep and overall health. Avoiding nighttime smoking is a critical step.Spicy Foods at Night
Eating spicy foods close to bedtime can trigger acid reflux or heartburn, which Gamaldo says can worsen sleep apnea symptoms. Acid backing into the esophagus irritates airways, leading to snoring or breathing pauses. Managing heartburn through diet and timing meals earlier can mitigate these disruptions and promote restful sleep.Pets in the Bedroom
Pets bring joy, but their presence in bed can disturb sleep. Gamaldo explains that pets track allergens into the bedroom, exacerbating allergies or sleep disorders. Nighttime pet movements or noises, like thrashing from nightmares, can jolt you awake. Crating pets or keeping them off the bed can minimize disturbances, especially for those with diagnosed sleep issues.
The Role of Blood Tests
Experts stress that underlying medical conditions, such as thyroid imbalances or vitamin deficiencies, can also disrupt sleep. A blood test can reveal if hormone levels, iron, or other markers are off, which may contribute to insomnia or poor sleep quality. For instance, low thyroid levels mimic sleep apnea symptoms, says Johns Hopkins. Identifying and treating these issues can restore balance, complementing lifestyle changes to improve sleep.
By addressing these six factors and consulting a healthcare provider for a blood test, you may be able to uncover hidden barriers to sleep. With this in mind, I urge you to consider our sponsor today. There is no obligation if you decide to check them out, and full disclosure: I earn a very small commission if you click and visit their website. Regardless of that, more importantly, there are so many new opportunities to be evaluated — and to get blood taken — for far less than it used to be. And with the advent of AI, there has never been a better time to get your health and sleep in order. Please, you owe it to yourself, take a look around Superpower’s website and see the options. I can tell you this much, I am using a concierge service via Mayo Clinic and it is costing me $7k per year. It has been a lifesaver, but I didn’t realize I could get it far cheaper and with a lot more flexibility. Check this out below, and thank me later.
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