Issue 44.17
If you have poor sleep patterns, you’re more likely to be overweight and obese. That’s the conclusion of a new research study from the University of Leeds in the United Kingdom.
According to the study, people who slept on average around six hours each night had a waist measurement that was an inch or more larger than those individuals who were getting nine hours each night. The study also revealed that those with less sleep had reduced levels of HDL cholesterol, also known as the “good cholesterol.” HDL cholesterol helps remove “bad” fat from the blood.
The study’s lead investigator, Dr. Laura Hardie, concluded, “How much sleep we need differs between people, but the current consensus is that seven to nine hours is best for most adults.”
At Premier Sleep Solutions, we know that a common cause of poor sleep is a medical condition called sleep apnea. Sleep apnea repeatedly causes the body to stop breathing, and it can lead to potentially life-threatening conditions like high blood pressure, heart attack and stroke. In many cases, people with sleep apnea also tend to be overweight.
Premier Sleep Solutions specializes in treating patients suffering from sleep apnea by fitting them with custom-made oral appliances. Premier Sleep Solutions is now using new technology to take digital impressions of a patient’s mouth during the fitting process. This technology is faster and more comfortable for the patient than traditional impression trays. The oral appliances, which are similar to bleach trays in appearance, can often be used in place of continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machines. While CPAP machines have been used for years, recent research has shown that in many cases, custom-made oral appliances can be as effective as CPAP in treating sleep apnea. Plus, many patients find CPAP machines to be so cumbersome that they refuse to use them regularly.
Most insurance companies now cover oral appliance therapy and the oral appliances. Medicare is leading the way relative to standard of care within the industry. For a limited time, Premier Sleep Solutions in St. George is offering free sleep consultations. This is normally a $200 value.
For more information or to schedule a sleep consultation, contact Premier Sleep Solutions in St. George at (435)319-0478 or visit www.premiersleepsolutions.com. Premier Sleep Solutions now has offices in St. George, Salt Lake City and Las Vegas. The St. George office address is 75 South 100 East, #1E.
Dr. Shad Morris, DMD, is a member of the American Academy of Dental Sleep Medicine, a certified diplomate of the American Academy of Sleep and Breathing, and CEO of Premier Sleep Solutions LLC.