Beating the clock with shift work and healthy sleep

As the world around us grows to meet demands of globalization and a 24-hour work day, shift work is becoming more and more common.  Working as a doctor or nurse, policeman, flight attendant, or any of the many professions that keep our communities going around-the-clock may help us all get ahead, but shift work can have drastic affects not only your sleep and wake cycles but also overall health and wellness.

There are many associated risks with shift work that include frequent sleep disturbance and excessive sleeplessness as well as poor concentration, accidents, injuries and errors.  This is a bit scary for all of use when you consider the fact that many of these jobs are designed to serve and protect us. 

The good news is that there are a number of things you can do to help your body's rhythms adjust to varying times of day to help you sleep anytime, and anywhere bedtime may be.

Try to keep activities as close to a normal time as possible. Keep the same scheduled shift for at least 3-6 months at a time so that your body can adjust to your new routine.

Take a low amount of melatonin before bed.  Your body releases melatonin naturally when it becomes dark outside and often this is what is missing in shift work.  Taking melatonin will signal your body that it is time for rest.  All Dreamerz products have this small amount of melatonin. 

Avoid napping.  Try to stay awake until it's actually bedtime. Forcing your body to meet a new schedule can help speed adjustment.

For an upcoming shift change, anticipate the new schedule and slowly adjust your daily routine to better match the times of your upcoming timetable.

 Avoid alcohol and caffeine before bedtime.

Just a few minor adjustments can help transitions your system into a new routine. Remember, sleep is as important as diet and exercise!