I believe “Frère Jacques (Are You Sleeping)” was the first song that I learned on the recorder in the 3rd grade. I was so excited to play the little plastic instrument! I loved making noise and turning it into notes and music! “Are You Sleeping?” is a nursery rhyme, but these words plague 50-70 million US adults which identify with having a sleep disorder. Insomnia or inability to sleep is the most common sleep disorder. 30% of adults report short term issues and 10% report chronic insomnia.
I approach all my patients with these same words, “Are You Sleeping?”, My philosophy is if you are sleeping well then everything gets a little better. Counter to that, if you are not sleeping it can have a significant impact on your health. It can cause memory issues, lack of alertness, car accidents and relationship stress as well. In the long term, a lack of quality sleep can lead to high blood pressure, obesity, impaired immunity and possible heart attacks. Though we get more or less sleep at different stages of our lives, a minimum of 7 hours of sleep a night is recommended.
Chronic sleep deprivation can even affect your appearance as well. Missing out on sleep can lead to premature wrinkling and dark circles under the eyes. Research has also shown a link between lack of sleep and an increase in the stress hormone, cortisol, in the body. Cortisol can break down collagen, the protein that keeps skin smooth.
Cannabidiol, also known as CBD may help with sleep. CBD is a non-euphoric causing active compound in cannabis and hemp plants. It interacts with the Endocannabinoid System which helps the body maintain balance and stability. A 2019 study published in The Permanente Journal looked at patients with anxiety and experiencing poor sleep. Each was given a 25mg CBD capsule daily. In the first month, 66.7% of the subjects reported better sleep. Look for full spectrum CBD products. The synergistic effects of CBD with the other active compounds called cannabinoids can bring added benefits and higher quality of sleep. CBD has also been found to help regulate cortisol levels, decreasing our stress hormone which can support but at high levels can also cause havoc on the body as well.
Make sleep a prioirty in an effort to reclaim your wellness. Talk to your cannabinoid doctor about adding CBD to your regimen. National Sleep Awareness Week is March 14-20, 2021. It is a weeklong celebration of sleep health. To learn more go to: https://www.thensf.org/sleep-awareness-week/
