Melatonin: Is it a safer solution for sleep disorders?

From standardmedia.co.ke 

Sleeping well is crucial for your health, as your body repairs and restores itself during those precious hours. But falling asleep quickly isn’t something everyone experiences.

Insufficient or poor-quality sleep has been linked to various chronic conditions affecting the cardiovascular, nervous and immune systems, as well as disrupting metabolic functions. Moreover, sleep deprivation often leads to noticeable moodiness and irritability. The World Health Organization (WHO) defines sleep-wake disorders as conditions that involve difficulty initiating or maintaining sleep (insomnia), excessive daytime sleepiness (hypersomnolence), or other problematic events during sleep or while falling asleep (parasomnias). These disorders can severely impact physical, mental, social and emotional well-being.

Sleep problems have become a global concern. According to the WHO Strategic Advisory Group of Experts on Immunization (SAGE), about 16.6 per cent of the global population reports severe nocturnal sleep issues. Professor Ana Checa-Ros, a paediatrician and sleep expert says one effective tip for better sleep is keeping your bedroom dark. Light exposure can interfere with the body’s production of melatonin, a hormone essential for sleep. 

“Melatonin is crucial for regulating our sleep patterns,” says Prof Checa-Ros. “Melatonin is released in response to darkness, signalling to the body that it’s time to sleep.” Dr Ezekiel Mecha, an endocrinologist, explains, “As night falls and light decreases, melatonin levels rise, making us feel drowsy and ready for sleep. It lowers our body temperature and relaxes our muscles, which is essential for a healthy sleep cycle,” Dr Mecha advises. “To support melatonin production, keep lights dim before bedtime and avoid screens. The blue and green light from devices can reduce melatonin's effectiveness.” Daylight exposure during the morning and afternoon helps regulate melatonin production, setting the stage for a better night's sleep. 

Melatonin also has broader health benefits. “It’s not just about sleep; melatonin is an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory,” notes Professor Checa-Ros. “It can help with chronic conditions like heart disease, diabetes and even cancer by reducing inflammation.” Melatonin supplements can be particularly useful for those struggling with insomnia. “For people with sleep onset insomnia, melatonin can help them fall asleep more quickly,” says Professor Checa-Ros. “Taking melatonin 20 to 30 minutes before bed can promote drowsiness and improve sleep quality.” 

According to SleepFoundation, 27.4 per cent of adults use melatonin as a sleep aid. While generally safe, melatonin should be used correctly. “Even good sleepers may occasionally struggle with sleep,” says Professor Checa-Ros. “If you have trouble sleeping for more than a few nights, melatonin might be worth trying.” Melatonin is safe for both children and adults when used appropriately. However, high doses should be approached with caution due to possible side effects like nausea, headache, or abdominal discomfort. 

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) classifies melatonin as a dietary supplement, not a pharmaceutical drug. It may also be beneficial for treating various conditions, including delayed sleep-wake phase disorder, gastroesophageal reflux disease and jet lag. Incorporating melatonin into your routine can significantly improve sleep quality. However, it’s essential to consult with a healthcare professional to tailor its use to your specific needs.

https://www.standardmedia.co.ke/health/health-science/article/2001499731/melatonin-is-it-a-safer-solution-for-sleep-disorders

Discovery of different forms of insomnia could lead to better treatment

From theguardian.com

Brain scans reveal evidence of five subtypes, raising prospect of tailored approaches to improving sleep 

The sluggish start to the day, the struggle to concentrate on everyday tasks and the lethargy that comes with just a few hours sleep, these are the symptoms that will be familiar to anyone who suffers with insomnia.

But according to research, not all sleepless nights are the same. Brain scans have revealed evidence for distinct forms of insomnia, each with an associated pattern of neural wiring.

And while the clinical distinction may mean little to those whose days are blighted by sleep deprivation, the discovery does raise the prospect of tailored interventions for people with different kinds of insomnia, which could lead to better treatments.

Researchers at the Netherlands Institute for Neuroscience in Amsterdam analysed MRI scans from more than 200 insomniacs and dozens of sound sleepers and spotted structural changes that distinguished sleepers from the sleepless and five separate forms of insomnia.

“If these subtypes differ in their biological mechanism, then patients in each subtype might benefit from different focused treatments,” said Tom Bresser, a neuroscientist and first author on the study.

Insomnia is broadly defined as poor sleep, generally due to difficulties falling or staying asleep, which negatively affects daytime functioning. About a third of adults in western countries have sleep problems at least once a week, with up to 10% qualifying for a formal insomnia diagnosis.

Chronic insomnia is diagnosed if someone suffers sleep problems on at least three nights a week for three months or more. The condition is nearly twice as common in women than men.

Doctors recommend going to bed and waking at the same time each day, exercising daily, relaxing for at least an hour before bed, and making sure the bedroom is dark and quiet. Avoiding big meals late at night and not smoking or drinking alcohol or caffeine at least six hours before bedtime also helps.

In the latest work, published in Biological Psychiatry and led by Prof Eus van Someren, the team looked at MRI brain scans from 204 people with insomnia who had been grouped according to the subtypes. The scans revealed brain structure differences between the subtypes, providing further evidence that they are rooted in biology.

The researchers think personality and mood traits can be used to categorise insomnia because their influence may be similar during sleep and waking hours. For example, if people tend to be badly affected by stress during day-to-day life, stress may also be more likely to interfere with their sleep.

It means, for example, that meditation, an effective relaxation technique, may help with subtypes characterised by high energy levels before bed. Patients with some forms of insomnia are more likely than others to develop depression, so clinicians could offer early preventive therapy to these individuals.

Prof Tsuyoshi Kitajima, who studies sleep at the Fujita Health University in Japan, said it was surprising that insomnia subtypes derived from questionnaires had such biological differences in the brain scans. “I think this study provides significant evidence for the validity of the authors’ subtyping,” he added.

Dieter Riemann, a professor of clinical psychophysiology at the University of Freiburg in Germany, called the work “highly interesting” and said it may encourage clinicians to take insomnia more seriously. “Many of them see insomnia as a minor complaint or a symptom, but if it has some neurobiological underpinning then that would mean we have to take insomnia more seriously than we did before,” he said.

https://www.theguardian.com/society/article/2024/jul/22/discovery-different-forms-insomnia-could-better-treatment

Science Says These Are The Best Foods To Eat If You Have Insomnia

From healthdigest.com

Getting your recommended seven hours of sleep doesn't always come easy. Stress, alcohol, pain, and some medications can cause you to stare wide awake at your clock for several hours. While everyone might experience an occasional sleepless night, a 2019 article in the Journal of Clinical Sleep Medicine said that about 30% of people experience chronic insomnia, and it's more common in women and older adults. Insomnia can lead to a poor quality of life, an increased risk of accidents, and psychiatric disorders.

If you have insomnia, you might be prescribed sleep medication or therapy to help you sleep. You might also look to certain foods to help you sleep. "There are no specific foods or a specific diet that will help with insomnia, generally speaking," says Dr. Angela Holliday-Bell, a board-certified physician, certified sleep specialist, and founder of the Solution is Sleep LLC. "With that being said, there are certain foods that may help some people fall asleep more easily."

According to a 2021 article in the Annual Review of Nutrition, tryptophan in foods like nuts, seeds, and legumes can be converted to melatonin to support your sleep cycle, especially if you consume these foods with carbohydrates. Some foods can promote sleep because they are high in melatonin, such as almonds and walnuts. The study suggested the nutrients in fruits, vegetables, legumes, and lean proteins in the Mediterranean diet work together to improve sleep quality.

Eating before bed if you have insomnia

While some foods might help people fall asleep, Dr. Angela Holliday-Bell said these might not work for people with insomnia. "Insomnia is a complex sleep disorder that often involves maladaptive cognitions and subsequent behaviours surrounding sleep."

Having a late meal isn't best for your sleep, especially if you have insomnia, Holliday-Bell said. "When it comes to healthy sleep practices in general, it's best to keep your largest meal, i.e., dinner, at least 3 to 4 hours before bedtime, as eating a larger meal too close to bedtime can cause your digestive system to be too active at a time when your body should be winding down in order to prepare for sleep."

If you're hungry at bedtime, Holliday-Bell suggests a small snack such as Greek yogurt with berries and nuts because it's rich in protein and complex carbohydrates. That way, you'll appease your hunger and prevent a blood sugar drop, which can interrupt sleep. Just be sure to eat it about an hour before your head hits the pillow.

The best strategy for people with insomnia

Although eating melatonin-rich foods like kiwi, walnuts, and tart cherry juice while avoiding large meals too close to bedtime could support your sleep, Dr. Angela Holliday-Bell says diet alone can't treat insomnia. "When it comes to insomnia, the best thing to do is work on the maladaptive thoughts and subsequent behaviours that have resulted as a consequence of sleep struggles," she said. "Taking part in something like cognitive behavioural therapy for insomnia is often the best strategy." This type of therapy can take eight weeks to treat chronic insomnia.

If you've received treatment for insomnia, you'll also want to establish a consistent sleep schedule to support good sleep. Regular exercise will also help you sleep, but alcohol, caffeine, and nicotine can keep you awake. A vegetarian diet also might stave off insomnia, according to a 2023 study in the European Journal of Clinical Nutrition. Men who follow a vegetarian diet had a 53% lower risk of insomnia, and women who are vegetarians saw a 29% lower risk.

https://www.healthdigest.com/1628262/best-foods-eat-help-insomnia-according-to-science/

Patient with 3-year bout of insomnia diagnoses the cause himself

From advisory.com

During the COVID-19 pandemic, a 53-year-old patient developed insomnia. He initially thought it was related to the stress of the pandemic, but after three sleepless years, he self-diagnosed the surprising cause of his condition

Sudden insomnia

During the COVID-19 pandemic, a 53-year-old patient developed insomnia. He initially thought it was related to the wave of insomnia many others were experiencing due to the stress and anxiety of living through the pandemic. But three years later, his insomnia persisted. He didn't exhibit any of the common mental health or stress-related symptoms that can cause the condition. His primary doctor suggested he try Benadryl^®, a common over-the-counter allergy medication, because it can induce drowsiness to aid sleep.

Already familiar with the medication for his seasonal allergies, it proved fairly successful in helping the patient manage his insomnia. However, after taking the medication for almost three years as a sleep aid, he became concerned about the potential long-term side effects. Benadryl is generally not recommended for long-term use due to reports of increased risks for dementia in older individuals. The patient opted to stay on the medication until he could find another effective sleep aid or determine what was causing the insomnia.

A diagnostic test sheds light

In late 2023, the patient (6'-0' tall and 175 lbs.) noticed some unexplained weight loss that continued into early 2024. His primary doctor ordered blood work to check his thyroid and adrenal gland function as a potential cause, but both were normal. When his weight dropped 12-15 lbs. with no other symptoms, his doctor referred him to a gastroenterologist (GI).

The patient's colonoscopy from a few years earlier was normal and results from his recent annual physical were excellent. As a result, the GI recommended testing for celiac disease and getting an abdomen/pelvic CT scan and chest X-ray. The celiac blood panel came back negative and results from the 2 scans showed that his internal organs were all normal. The diagnostic tests had failed to find the source of his weight loss but did help rule out things that weren’t the cause.

Diet reveals a possible clue

Curious to know more about celiac disease, the patient learned that you could test negative for the condition, but still be sensitive to gluten (non-celiac gluten sensitivity). It was also possible to not present any symptoms of either condition. He also learned that the disease causes damage to the lining of the small intestine that can result in malnutrition and trigger weight loss. So, despite testing negative for celiac disease and having no history of problems from gluten, he decided to try a gluten-free diet to test for asymptomatic gluten sensitivity.

The results he observed were surprising. While on the diet, his weight loss stabilized, and he even noticed improvement in his sleep. In fact, he was able to reduce his reliance on Benadryl as a sleep aid.

Gluten sensitivity and insomnia

The patient researched any link between gluten sensitivity and insomnia, learning that the sleeping disorder was one of the possible symptoms. Some experts believe the condition is caused by poor absorption of nutrients that are important to sleep function, such as magnesium and vitamin D. Within a couple of weeks of that discovery, the patient was able to stop taking Benadryl completely and his sleep patterns returned to normal. The patient didn't regain weight on his gluten-free diet but also didn't experience any further weight loss.

Lessons learned

The patient believes the anecdotal evidence suggests that gluten sensitivity may have been the hidden culprit behind both his insomnia and weight loss. His health experience with insomnia led him to make two important observations:

1.     Patients have to be proactive about their own wellness. That means paying close attention to changes in their bodies that can help explain health problems doctors may not see. It also means trusting their instincts and gathering more information about their health condition for better understanding. It's worth noting that the patient's own curiosity led him to discover the link between asymptomatic gluten sensitivity and his insomnia, a connection his doctors didn't make.

2.     It's important for doctors to look beyond the obvious to uncover the cause for some health concerns. This is especially the case when typical symptoms of a condition don't manifest. The patient noted that gluten sensitivity was never mentioned as a possible cause for his insomnia by his doctors. He even asked his primary doctor early on about any possible diet or nutrient deficiencies that could be related to his insomnia. But once the more common triggers for insomnia (stress and anxiety) were ruled out, the doctor's focus shifted toward managing the condition with medication versus exploring other causes. The patient believes he could have been spared three years of needless sleep disruption had the doctor done the latter.

https://www.advisory.com/daily-briefing/2024/07/23/insomnia

Discovery of different forms of insomnia could lead to better treatment

From theguardian.com

Brain scans reveal evidence of five subtypes, raising prospect of tailored approaches to improving sleep 

The sluggish start to the day, the struggle to concentrate on everyday tasks and the lethargy that comes with just a few hours sleep, these are the symptoms that will be familiar to anyone who suffers with insomnia.

But according to research, not all sleepless nights are the same. Brain scans have revealed evidence for distinct forms of insomnia, each with an associated pattern of neural wiring.

And while the clinical distinction may mean little to those whose days are blighted by sleep deprivation, the discovery does raise the prospect of tailored interventions for people with different kinds of insomnia, which could lead to better treatments.

Researchers at the Netherlands Institute for Neuroscience in Amsterdam analysed MRI scans from more than 200 insomniacs and dozens of sound sleepers and spotted structural changes that distinguished sleepers from the sleepless and five separate forms of insomnia.

“If these subtypes differ in their biological mechanism, then patients in each subtype might benefit from different focused treatments,” said Tom Bresser, a neuroscientist and first author on the study.

About a third of adults in western countries have sleep problems at least once a week, with up to 10% qualifying for a formal insomnia diagnosis. Photograph: JGI/Tom Grill/Getty Images/Tetra images RF

Insomnia is broadly defined as poor sleep, generally due to difficulties falling or staying asleep, which negatively affects daytime functioning. About a third of adults in western countries have sleep problems at least once a week, with up to 10% qualifying for a formal insomnia diagnosis.

Chronic insomnia is diagnosed if someone suffers sleep problems on at least three nights a week for three months or more. The condition is nearly twice as common in women than men.

Doctors recommend going to bed and waking at the same time each day, exercising daily, relaxing for at least an hour before bed, and making sure the bedroom is dark and quiet. Avoiding big meals late at night and not smoking or drinking alcohol or caffeine at least six hours before bedtime also helps.

In the latest work, published in Biological Psychiatry and led by Prof Eus van Someren, the team looked at MRI brain scans from 204 people with insomnia who had been grouped according to the subtypes. The scans revealed brain structure differences between the subtypes, providing further evidence that they are rooted in biology.

The researchers think personality and mood traits can be used to categorise insomnia because their influence may be similar during sleep and waking hours. For example, if people tend to be badly affected by stress during day-to-day life, stress may also be more likely to interfere with their sleep.

It means, for example, that meditation, an effective relaxation technique, may help with subtypes characterised by high energy levels before bed. Patients with some forms of insomnia are more likely than others to develop depression, so clinicians could offer early preventive therapy to these individuals.

Prof Tsuyoshi Kitajima, who studies sleep at the Fujita Health University in Japan, said it was surprising that insomnia subtypes derived from questionnaires had such biological differences in the brain scans. “I think this study provides significant evidence for the validity of the authors’ subtyping,” he added.

Dieter Riemann, a professor of clinical psychophysiology at the University of Freiburg in Germany, called the work “highly interesting” and said it may encourage clinicians to take insomnia more seriously. “Many of them see insomnia as a minor complaint or a symptom, but if it has some neurobiological underpinning then that would mean we have to take insomnia more seriously than we did before,” he said.

https://www.theguardian.com/society/article/2024/jul/22/discovery-different-forms-insomnia-could-better-treatment

3 Reasons Why You Can’t Sleep At Night

From forbes.com 

If there's one thing we haven't mastered, it's good quality sleep. Good sleep continues to evade even the best of us trying to fix our sleep issues. But what makes it difficult for us to fall and stay asleep?

Science has provided extensive knowledge about our sleep problems, from the impact of our sleep routine and mattress quality to the influence of late-night caffeine and screen time. Yet, we are only beginning to understand the full scope of our struggles with sleep.

Current research has unveiled other significant factors that can disrupt our sleep and, if left unchecked, can cause substantial harm to our overall health. Here are three key reasons you might need help to get a good night's sleep.

                                                                                                                         PHOTOTHEK VIA GETTY IMAGES

Effects Of Trauma On Sleep

Experiencing trauma may increase the risk of mental and physical health issues, which has the potential to affect sleep quality, according to the Sleep Foundation. Trauma can be personal and vicarious. Personal trauma is a direct experience of a distressing event, while vicarious trauma is the emotional residue of exposure to another's traumatic experiences.

Various sleep disorders develop following a traumatic event, including TASD, also known as trauma-associated sleep disorder. TASD consists of trauma-related nightmares and disruptive night-time behaviours and shares similarities with post-traumatic stress disorder, according to a 2024 review published in Sleep Medicine Clinics journal. Other sleep issues that are common after a traumatic event include alertness and hyperarousal, which are some symptoms of insomnia.

Additionally, after experiencing trauma, many people have trouble falling asleep, wake up more often during the night, and have difficulty falling back asleep. It will require an effective trauma-informed intervention to address sleep issues related to trauma directly.

The Strain Of Overwork

While sleep is crucial for our mental and physical well-being, overworking ourselves can lead to sleep difficulties, as highlighted in recent research from the International Journal of Social Psychiatry. Overwork also harms our quality of life and longevity and leads to less productivity. And even business titans have taken notice. For instance, Arianna Huffington has how a collapse from exhaustion led to her increasing passion for the connection between well-being and productivity—and ultimately founding Thrive Global, a platform working to beat burnout.

Tesla, SpaceX, and X, formerly Twitter CEO Elon Musk, recently stated he now makes an effort to sleep at least six hours per night. Also, Bill Gates, in recent years, has noted the importance of getting enough sleep and at least seven hours of sleep. Overworking is not a badge of honour; it should serve as a wake-up call to prioritize our sleep and make necessary changes to our work habits.

Poor Sleep Environment

The journey toward better sleep also involves our bedtime routines' effectiveness or lack thereof. Creating a restful environment is part of good sleep hygiene, including ensuring environmental conditions (temperature, noise, light, bed comfort, electronic distractions) are ideal. According to the National Institutes of Health, such conditions can play a significant role in one's ability to get proper sleep—and, subsequently, in overall sleep-related wellness. However, creating an ideal sleep environment also includes having a healthy mental state before bedtime. One example is avoiding negative news, as it can feed negative thoughts and increase hypervigilance and the risk of vicarious trauma.

Still, we cannot ignore existing sleep disparities. New research published in the Behavioural Sleep Medicine journal shows that environmental factors (e.g., noise, uncomfortable temperature, light exposure) related to urban poverty may disturb children's sleep and asthma. Hence, each person should create the right sleep environment, implement new approaches, and do what works for them in their given situation. But a good sleep environment should not just be a responsibility we place on individuals. Society can put equitable systems in place for those who lack resources to address worsening sleep health issues. It could include community programs that provide sleep education and resources or policies that promote healthy work-life balance.

The last few decades have seen a mountain of research showing how deeply connected sleep is to our health, well-being, and productivity. But despite recent progress, sleep deprivation remains an issue in our society. When we prioritize sleep, our decision-making, creativity, and productivity improve dramatically. Now is the time to invest in sleep and rest for an improved quality of life. As acclaimed American novelist Robert A Heinlein once said: "Happiness consists in getting enough sleep."

https://www.forbes.com/sites/sophieokolo/2024/07/20/reasons-why-you-cant-sleep-at-night/

The health problems that can afflict high level business leaders and how these can be prevented

From bmmagazine.co.uk

The pressures and demands of corporate leadership can take a toll not only on profits and productivity, but also on the health and well-being of those at the helm

From stress-related disorders to lifestyle diseases, the range of health issues affecting business leaders is significant.

Here, Harley Street GP, Dr Sophia Khalique, discusses how to better understand these challenge and proactive measures entrepreneurs can take to safeguard their health, as well as providing insight on fostering a healthier and sustainable leadership culture.

What are the most common health issues you observe in high-level business leaders?

“Stress-related conditions like anxiety and insomnia are very common, as business leaders are often grappling with the immense pressures of their roles.

“Then there are musculoskeletal problems, like back pain and repetitive strain injuries, which come from long periods spent sitting and maybe not the best posture.

“Lifestyle diseases such as obesity, hypertension, and diabetes are also very prevalent, likely due to hectic schedules that make it tough to eat well and exercise regularly. And let’s not forget mental health—issues like depression and burnout are sadly not uncommon, given the constant decision-making and high-stakes responsibilities they face.

“Dealing with all this calls for a balanced approach—helping them tweak their lifestyles, find ways to de-stress, and giving them personalised care that fits their busy lives.”

How does the high-stress environment of business leadership contribute to physical health problems?

“The high-stress environment of business leadership can have a big impact on physical health.

“Chronic stress triggers the release of hormones like cortisol and adrenaline, which, over time, can lead to elevated blood pressure, increased risk of heart disease, and compromised immune function.

“The constant pressure and long hours can also disrupt sleep patterns and contribute to conditions such as insomnia, exacerbating fatigue and impairing cognitive function.

“Stress often prompts unhealthy coping mechanisms like poor dietary choices and lack of exercise, putting business leaders at greater risk of weight gain, diabetes, and other lifestyle-related ailments.”

Can you explain the impact of long working hours and poor work-life balance on mental health for CEOs?

“Long working hours and poor work-life balance can take a substantial toll on the mental health of CEOs and other business leaders. The relentless demands of their roles can lead to chronic stress, feelings of overwhelm, and a heightened sense of responsibility. This can contribute to anxiety disorders, depression, and burnout syndrome.

“Sleep disturbances are common, affecting mood regulation and cognitive function, and the lack of time for relaxation and meaningful social interactions can heighten feelings of isolation and emotional exhaustion, further compromising mental well-being.”

What strategies or interventions do you recommend for CEOs to manage stress and maintain mental well-being?

“For CEOs looking to manage stress and maintain mental well-being, I recommend prioritising regular physical activity, such as aerobic exercise or yoga, which can help alleviate stress and improve mood.

“Secondly, adopting mindfulness or relaxation techniques, like meditation or deep breathing exercises, can enhance resilience to stressors.

“Establishing clear boundaries between work and personal life is also really important, as well as and delegating responsibilities when possible to promote a healthier work-life balance.

“Seeking support from a therapist or counsellor can also provide valuable tools for coping with stress and addressing underlying mental health concerns.”

What specific cardiovascular risks are increased in high-level business professionals, and why?

“High-level business professionals face increased cardiovascular risks mainly due to chronic stress, sedentary lifestyles, and poor dietary habits. Stress contributes to elevated blood pressure and heart rate, which, over time, can lead to hypertension and an increased risk of heart disease.

“Prolonged sitting and lack of physical activity are associated with weight gain, higher cholesterol levels, and insulin resistance, all of which are risk factors for cardiovascular diseases like heart attacks and strokes.

“Additionally, frequent travel and irregular meal times can disrupt metabolic health, further exacerbating these risks.”

How can business leaders identify early signs of burnout and take steps to prevent it?

“Business leaders can identify early signs of burnout by paying attention to physical, emotional, and behavioural cues such as chronic fatigue, irritability, decreased motivation, and difficulty concentrating.

“It’s important to recognise when work-related stress becomes overwhelming and affects personal well-being. To prevent burnout, leaders should prioritise self-care, set realistic goals, and establish boundaries to protect personal time and recharge.

“Regularly enjoying hobbies, spending time with loved ones, and seeking professional support when needed can also lessen the risk of burnout.”

What role does diet and nutrition play in maintaining the health of business leaders, and what dietary habits should they adopt?

“Diet and nutrition play a crucial role in maintaining business leaders’ health. A balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains supports optimal energy levels, cognitive function, and immune health.

“Avoiding excessive caffeine, sugar, and processed foods can help stabilise energy levels and reduce the risk of weight gain and metabolic disorders, and regular meals and healthy snacks throughout the day can prevent dips in blood sugar and maintain focus during demanding work hours.

“Hydration is also essential — drinking plenty of water supports overall health and cognitive function.”

Do you have anything else you’d like to raise?

“The most important thing for business leaders is to recognise the impact of stress, long hours, and lifestyle factors on both their physical and mental health. This is essential for sustainable leadership.

“Taking proactive measures like regular health screenings and check-ups plays a pivotal role in early detection and prevention of potential health issues.

“By taking charge of their health through preventive screenings, leaders can ensure they maintain optimal well-being and performance over the long term, benefiting both themselves and their businesses.”

https://bmmagazine.co.uk/in-business/health-and-wellbeing/the-health-problems-that-can-afflict-high-level-business-leaders-and-how-these-can-be-prevented/