(NAPSA)—Getting a good night’s sleep doesn’t have to be a pipe dream—but for many Ameri- cans, it feels like just that. According to a survey by the National Sleep Foundation, 74 percent of Americans don’t get enough sleep each night and most feel sleepy or groggy during the week. In addition, 51 percent of adults say they have problems sleeping at least a few nights a week and nearly a third have trouble sleeping every night. Doctors say being sleepdeprived has a variety of negative | a ws “An. Fe 2 Taking few steps may help you get a better night’s sleep. good night’s sleep, but doctors say the opposite may be true. If you need backgroundnoise to drift off, effects on the body, ranging from increased levels of stress to weak- try turning on a fan or a white noise machine instead of a TV or radio. Be sure your nighttime rou- ing can take its toll mentally as instance, ened immunesystems. Not sleep- well: Studies have shown sleepdeprived people have slower reac- tion times and more trouble con- centrating than do people who are well rested. So what’s the best way to find dreamland? Try these tips from the experts: Make sure your bed is comfortable and cozy. From mattress to pillows, creating the right sleep environment can help you ease into sleep. Consider splurging on tine isn’t keeping you awake. For many people use overnight tooth whiteners that aren't well suited for their sensi- tive teeth. The products can be uncomfortable and interfere with their sleep. Instead, consider a product such as Crest Night Effects Premium. The paint-on whitener is designed specifically for people with sensitive teeth. “A good night’s sleep is one of the best ways to keep your body healthy,” explains Jacqui Stafford, style director of Shape magazine. some high thread count sheets or “Simple things like establishing a people feel sleeping with the tele- your bed is comfortable can make a huge difference in the way you an orthopedicpillow. Keep the noise down. Many vision or radio on helps them get a pre-bed routine or being certain look andfeel.”
