Latest news with #LisaArtis
Scotsman
22-05-2025
- Health
- Scotsman
Waking Up Too Early? Expert warns this common habit that could be a sign of a serious health condition
More than half (54%) of Brits say they regularly wake up in the middle of the night – and then struggle to drift off again, it has emerged. Sign up to our daily newsletter Sign up Thank you for signing up! Did you know with a Digital Subscription to Edinburgh News, you can get unlimited access to the website including our premium content, as well as benefiting from fewer ads, loyalty rewards and much more. Learn More Sorry, there seem to be some issues. Please try again later. Submitting... While it's not uncommon to occasionally find yourself staring at the clock at 4:00 AM, a new poll of 2,000* adults commissioned by sleep technology firm Simba found nearly a third (32%) battle this almost or every single night – with women hit harder than men (34% Vs 30%). Younger Millennials and older Gen Z - aged 25-34 - are the worst affected, with 37 per cent facing frustrating nightly wake-ups that leave them tossing and turning. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad Lisa Artis, Deputy CEO of the Sleep Charity, Simba's charity partner, warns that this common sleep habit could be a sign of a more serious health condition. An expert warned that regularly waking up 'too early' could indicate a thyroid problem 'Waking up too early can point to an under or over active thyroid.' says Artis Tucked away in your neck is a small but powerful 'butterfly-shaped' gland called the thyroid. It makes thyroid hormones - T4 (thyroxine) and T3 (triiodothyronine) - which help control your metabolism, heart rate, body temperature, and energy levels. When the thyroid malfunctions, it can become underactive - known as Hypothyroidism or overactive - known as Hyperthyroidism. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad Both Hypothyroidism and Hyperthyroidism can affect sleep, but in different ways: Hyperthyroidism (Overactive Thyroid) tends to cause more noticeable sleep disturbances because it speeds up metabolism, leading to insomnia, restlessness, night sweats, and a racing heart. People often feel wired but exhausted. Hypothyroidism (Underactive Thyroid) can lead to excessive sleepiness, fatigue, and trouble staying awake during the day due to a slowed metabolism. It can also cause sleep apnea, which disrupts sleep quality. If the issue is trouble falling or staying asleep, hyperthyroidism usually has a bigger impact. If it's feeling constantly tired, hypothyroidism is generally more to blame. Simba's research found that 18% feel fatigued all the time. Thyroid hormones play a key role in maintaining the circadian rhythm, which regulates the sleep-wake cycle. Incorrect hormone levels can disrupt this rhythm, leading to early morning waking. Hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid) is more likely to cause you to wake up early during the night. This is because excess thyroid hormones can speed up your metabolism and stimulate your nervous system, leading to symptoms like anxiety, rapid heart rate, and restlessness. This can increase cortisol levels (the stress hormone), which may cause you to wake up earlier than usual, especially in the morning. These factors can disrupt your sleep cycle, causing you to wake up frequently or too early in the morning. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad 'Cortisol plays a role in waking you up in the morning, but if your thyroid is overactive, the stress response can become imbalanced, causing you to wake up too early and feel restless.' explains Artis. Celebrities like Liam Gallagher, Rachel Stevens and supermodel Gigi Hadid have all openly discussed their struggles with thyroid issues. Missy Elliott, has also publicly shared her battle with Graves' disease, which leads to hyperthyroidism, a condition where the thyroid is overactive. One in 20 people in the UK have a thyroid problem, according to the University of Aberdeen – and it can most commonly strike between the ages of 20 and 40 according to the NHS. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad The University of Aberdeen also found women are 10 times more likely to struggle with a thyroid issue than men, making early detection and treatment important. But how do you know if your thyroid is out of sync? Simba's study reveals that one in 10 (10%) regularly feel overly hot or sweaty, even when others don't, 12 per cent have an irregular or racing heartbeat, 17 per cent report dry, strained, or irritated eyes; while more than half (52%) struggle with anxiety, restlessness, or irritability - all potential signs of hyperthyroidism (an overactive thyroid). On the flip side, 37 per cent say they have become more sensitive to the cold, 17 per cent have gained weight despite no change in diet, nearly a quarter (23%) say their skin has become dry and scaly - while others (16%) have noticed their hair and nails becoming more brittle – all signals which can be linked to hypothyroidism (an underactive thyroid). "What distinguishes waking early from thyroid issues from occasional bouts of early morning waking is the presence of other symptoms, such as persistent fatigue, unexplained weight gain or weight loss, and feeling excessively cold or overheating.' Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad 'Other symptoms can include irregular periods, brain fog, muscle aches, dry skin, and changes in appetite.' 'Thyroid symptoms usually develop slowly and gradually, and can be quite vague, often overlapping with other conditions, which can make it difficult to diagnose.' 'A simple blood test can easily detect thyroid issues, so if you're experiencing these signs, it's worth consulting a doctor to rule out an under or over active thyroid." The good news is that thyroid problems are treatable, and making small lifestyle changes can make a big difference in managing the condition. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad To manage thyroid issues effectively, here are a few of Simba and The Sleep Charity's top tips: Seek medical advice - If you're regularly waking up too early and experiencing other symptoms, it's important to consult with a healthcare professional to rule out thyroid conditions. Maintain a consistent sleep schedule - Try to go to bed and wake up at the same time every day to help regulate your body's natural rhythm Exercise regularly - Physical activity can help improve sleep quality, mood, and metabolism — all of which can support thyroid function. 5-A-Day - A poor diet with low-nutrient foods is a key factor in thyroid disorders, as the thyroid relies heavily on essential nutrients to function properly. Add berries to your breakfast cereal or yoghurt, grab an apple or banana as a snack, throw an orange in your bag to cut up at lunch and finish with a juicy pineapple or papaya for dinner. Aim to eat at least five portions of a variety of fruits and vegetables every day. Curb Sugar and Processed Foods - Cut down on sugary snacks, fizzy drinks, and processed foods. Swap them for natural sweeteners with a lower glycemic index like honey, maple syrup, stevia or coconut sugar but use them in moderation. Focus on whole foods - veg, lean proteins, whole grains, and healthy fats. These nutrient-rich foods help keep your blood sugar steady and support your thyroid, giving your overall health a boost. Watch out for Soya - Levothyroxine is a medication commonly prescribed to treat hypothyroidism. The potential impact of soya on levothyroxine absorption remains a topic of discussion. While some studies show no effect, others suggest it may influence absorption, particularly in women. To be on the safe side, it's advisable to avoid consuming soya close to the time you take your levothyroxine. A gap of at least four hours between the two should help prevent any potential interference with the medication's effectiveness. Opt for Healthy Fats and Nutrients That Support Your Thyroid - Incorporate healthy fats into your diet with foods like avocados, nuts, seeds and olive oil. These fats help with hormone production and keep blood sugar levels stable. Include iodine-rich foods like seaweed, seafood, dairy and white fish - like cod and haddock - to support thyroid health, and don't forget selenium-rich options such as Brazil nuts, tuna, pork, eggs, cottage cheese and sunflower seeds. Make sure you're also getting enough vitamins B and D, either through food or supplements if needed, to keep your thyroid functioning well. Find your perfect sleep temperature - Temperature regulation is a key factor for those with thyroid conditions, as fluctuating body temperatures can be a common issue. A cool room (around 65°F / 18°C) is ideal for sleep. The Simba Hybrid Duvet is also great for temperature control, thanks to its advanced temperature-regulating technology that adapts to your body's needs, keeping you at the perfect temperature throughout the night. Go natural: A comfortable mattress is essential for restorative sleep, particularly for people with thyroid problems. The Simba Earth Mattress is designed with natural, breathable materials that help create a toxin-free sleep environment, which can be crucial in reducing inflammation and promoting better health. This is particularly beneficial for those with autoimmune thyroid conditions like Hashimoto's thyroiditis, as it minimizes external stressors that can aggravate symptoms. Careful with Coffee - A study found that caffeine can interfere with thyroid medication absorption, leading to unstable thyroid levels. You should take your medication with water and wait at least 30 minutes before drinking coffee. What to avoid? 'Ignoring things. Waking up too early and not being able to fall back asleep may seem like a minor inconvenience, but if it's happening consistently, it could be an important clue that something else is going on. Don't ignore the signs. 'Getting an under or over active thyroid diagnosed early is crucial. When your thyroid isn't producing enough hormones, it can also slow down how your body processes fat. 'This can lead to high cholesterol and clogged arteries, increasing the risk of serious heart problems like angina or even a heart attack. A Thyroid Function blood test can shine a light on the situation very simply.' says Lisa. Symptoms of an Overactive Thyroid (Hyperthyroidism): Weight loss - Losing weight despite an increased appetite. Sensitivity to heat- Feeling hot and sweating more than usual. Fast heart rate - Experiencing an irregular or rapid heartbeat (palpitations). Eye problems - Dry, gritty, or red eyes, blurred or double vision. Goiter - Swelling in the neck due to an enlarged thyroid gland. Skin problems - Red palms, hives, or warm skin. Hair loss - Thinning hair or patchy hair loss. Nervousness - Feeling anxious or having racing thoughts. Symptoms of an Underactive Thyroid (Hypothyroidism): Weight gain - Gaining weight due to a slowed metabolism. Sensitivity to cold - Struggling to stay warm. Slow heart rate - Heartbeat slowing down. Muscle weakness - Experiencing muscle aches, pains, or weakness. Skin problems - Dry, scaly, or itchy skin. Hair loss - Brittle, dry, or thinning hair. Mood changes - Feeling depressed, experiencing brain fog, or mood swings. Digestive problems - Constipation or irregular periods. Physical - Hoarse voice, puffy face, or hearing loss.
The Sun
21-05-2025
- Health
- The Sun
Always wake up early? It could be a sign of hidden condition that ‘destroys libido and triggers heart failure'
IT'S not uncommon to occasionally find yourself staring at the clock at 4am. But waking up too early can be a sign of something more serious going on with your health. 2 Nearly a third (32 per cent) of British adults battle this sleep problem almost or every single night, according to a new poll. And younger Millennials and older Gen Z - aged 25 to 34 - are the worst affected, with 37 per cent facing frustrating nightly wake-ups that leave them tossing and turning, according to Simba 's findings. While most nighttime awakenings aren't a cause for serious concern, Lisa Artis, deputy CEO of The Sleep Charity, warns this common sleep habit could be a sign of an overactive thyroid, also known as hyperthyroidism. Tucked away in your neck is a small but powerful butterfly-shaped gland called the thyroid. It makes thyroid hormones - T4 (thyroxine) and T3 (triiodothyronine) - which help control your metabolism, heart rate, body temperature, and energy levels. When the thyroid malfunctions, it can become underactive - known as hypothyroidism or overactive - known as hyperthyroidism. Hyperthyroidism is more likely to cause you to wake up early during the night. This is because excess thyroid hormones can speed up your metabolism and stimulate your nervous system, leading to symptoms like anxiety, rapid heart rate, and restlessness. It can also increase cortisol levels (the stress hormone), which may cause you to wake up earlier than usual, especially in the morning. 'Cortisol plays a role in waking you up in the morning, but if your thyroid is overactive, the stress response can become imbalanced, causing you to wake up too early and feel restless.' explains Artis. The dangerous hidden thyroid health conditions affecting millions - symptoms and treatment According to Dr Gaurav Agarwal, Consultant Physician and Endocrinologist, Nuffield Health Tunbridge Wells Hospital, waking up early can be one of the earliest signs of hyperthyroidism. He added: "Hyperthyroidism is relatively common in the UK. The most common cause is Graves' disease - an autoimmune condition - with smoking being one of the biggest risk factors. "It's seen more commonly in women than men, usually between the ages of 20 to 40." 2 Other symptoms of hyperthyroidism, says Dr Agarwal, include: Hyperactivity and restlessness Feeling tired all the time Increased thirst Feeling excessively hot Mood wings Overactive bowels and bladder Muscle weakness Itchy skin Frequent and/or lighter periods in woman Reduced sexual desire Dr Agarwal added: "One may notice their hair thinning, dry eyes, flushed palms, palpitations, swelling in the front of the neck, unintended weight loss as well as tremors." It's advisable to seek help early, so the correct diagnosis can be made and treatment started immediately, leading to quicker resolution of symptoms and restoration of health and well-being. Long-term hyperthyroidism, if left untreated, can have serious health consequences, warned Dr Agarwal. He advised: "Weakening of bones (osteoporosis), irregular heart beat (atrial fibrillation) and even a heart failure can occur. "It may even lead to complications in pregnancy." Hyperthyroidism is diagnosed through a combination of a physical exam, a detailed medical history, and blood tests. If you think you're experiencing any of the symptoms, see your GP. How to manage thyroid issues - top tips from Simba and The sleep Charity 1. Seek medical advice - If you're regularly waking up too early and experiencing other symptoms, it's important to consult with a healthcare professional to rule out thyroid conditions. 2. Maintain a consistent sleep schedule - Try to go to bed and wake up at the same time every day to help regulate your body's natural rhythm 3. Exercise regularly - Physical activity can help improve sleep quality, mood, and metabolism - all of which can support thyroid function. 4. 5-A-Day - A poor diet with low-nutrient foods is a key factor in thyroid disorders, as the thyroid relies heavily on essential nutrients to function properly. Add berries to your breakfast cereal or yoghurt, grab an apple or banana as a snack, throw an orange in your bag to cut up at lunch and finish with a juicy pineapple or papaya for dinner. Aim to eat at least five portions of a variety of fruits and vegetables every day. 5. Curb sugar and processed foods - Cut down on sugary snacks, fizzy drinks, and processed foods. Swap them for natural sweeteners with a lower glycemic index like honey, maple syrup, stevia or coconut sugar but use them in moderation. Focus on whole foods - veg, lean proteins, whole grains, and healthy fats. These nutrient-rich foods help keep your blood sugar steady and support your thyroid, giving your overall health a boost. 6. Watch out for soya - Levothyroxine is a medication commonly prescribed to treat hypothyroidism. The potential impact of soya on levothyroxine absorption remains a topic of discussion. While some studies show no effect, others suggest it may influence absorption, particularly in women. To be on the safe side, it's advisable to avoid consuming soya close to the time you take your levothyroxine. A gap of at least four hours between the two should help prevent any potential interference with the medication's effectiveness. 7. Opt for healthy fats and nutrients that support your thyroid - Incorporate healthy fats into your diet with foods like avocados, nuts, seeds and olive oil. These fats help with hormone production and keep blood sugar levels stable. Include iodine-rich foods like seaweed, seafood, dairy and white fish - like cod and haddock - to support thyroid health, and don't forget selenium-rich options such as Brazil nuts, tuna, pork, eggs, cottage cheese and sunflower seeds. Make sure you're also getting enough vitamins B and D, either through food or supplements if needed, to keep your thyroid functioning well. 8. Find your perfect sleep temperature - Temperature regulation is a key factor for those with thyroid conditions, as fluctuating body temperatures can be a common issue. A cool room (around 65°F / 18°C) is ideal for sleep. 9. Go natural: A comfortable mattress is essential for restorative sleep, particularly for people with thyroid problems. Opting for natural, breathable materials that help create a toxin-free sleep environment, can be crucial in reducing inflammation and promoting better health. This is particularly beneficial for those with autoimmune thyroid conditions like Hashimoto's thyroiditis, as it minimises external stressors that can aggravate symptoms. 10. Careful with Coffee - A study found that caffeine can interfere with thyroid medication absorption, leading to unstable thyroid levels. You should take your medication with water and wait at least 30 minutes before drinking coffee.
The Irish Sun
21-05-2025
- Health
- The Irish Sun
Always wake up early? It could be a sign of hidden condition that ‘destroys libido and triggers heart failure'
IT'S not uncommon to occasionally find yourself staring at the clock at 4am. But waking up too early can be a sign of something more serious going on with your health. Advertisement 2 If you find yourself always waking up early, it could be a sign of hyperthyroidism Credit: Getty Nearly a third (32 per cent) of British adults battle this sleep problem almost or every single night, according to a new poll. And younger Millennials and older Gen Z - aged 25 to 34 - are the worst affected, with 37 per cent facing frustrating nightly wake-ups that leave them tossing and turning, according to While most nighttime awakenings aren't a cause for serious concern, Lisa Artis, deputy CEO of Tucked away in your neck is a small but powerful butterfly-shaped gland called the thyroid. Advertisement Read more on thyroid issues It makes thyroid hormones - T4 (thyroxine) and T3 (triiodothyronine) - which help control your metabolism, heart rate, body temperature, and energy levels. When the thyroid malfunctions, it can become underactive - known as hypothyroidism or overactive - known as hyperthyroidism. Hyperthyroidism is more likely to cause you to wake up early during the night. This is because excess thyroid hormones can speed up your metabolism and stimulate your nervous system, leading to symptoms like Advertisement Most read in Health Graphic Warning Breaking It can also increase cortisol levels (the stress hormone), which may cause you to wake up earlier than usual, especially in the morning. 'Cortisol plays a role in waking you up in the morning, but if your thyroid is overactive, the stress response can become imbalanced, causing you to wake up too early and feel restless.' explains Artis. The dangerous hidden thyroid health conditions affecting millions - symptoms and treatment According to He added: "Hyperthyroidism is relatively common in the UK. The most common cause is Graves' disease - an autoimmune condition - with smoking being one of the biggest risk factors. Advertisement "It's seen more commonly in women than men, usually between the ages of 20 to 40." 2 The thyroid is a small but powerful butterfly-shaped gland in the neck Credit: Getty Other symptoms of hyperthyroidism, says Dr Agarwal, include: Hyperactivity and restlessness Feeling tired all the time Increased thirst Feeling excessively hot Mood wings Overactive bowels and bladder Muscle weakness Frequent and/or lighter periods in woman Dr Agarwal added: "One may notice their hair thinning, dry eyes, flushed palms, palpitations, swelling in the front of the neck, unintended weight loss as well as tremors." Advertisement It's advisable to seek help early, so the correct diagnosis can be made and treatment started immediately, leading to quicker resolution of symptoms and restoration of health and well-being. Long-term hyperthyroidism, if left untreated, can have serious health consequences, warned Dr Agarwal. He advised: "Weakening of bones (osteoporosis), irregular heart beat (atrial fibrillation) and even a "It may even lead to complications in pregnancy." Advertisement Hyperthyroidism is diagnosed through a combination of a physical exam, a detailed medical history , and blood tests. If you think you're experiencing any of the symptoms, see your GP. How to manage thyroid issues - top tips from Simba and The sleep Charity 1. Seek medical advice - If you're regularly waking up too early and experiencing other symptoms, it's important to consult with a healthcare professional to rule out thyroid conditions. 2. Maintain a consistent sleep schedule - Try to go to bed and wake up at the same time every day to help regulate your body's natural rhythm 3. Exercise regularly - Physical activity can help improve sleep quality, mood, and metabolism - all of which can support thyroid function. 4. 5-A-Day - A poor diet with low-nutrient foods is a key factor in thyroid disorders, as the thyroid relies heavily on essential nutrients to function properly. Add berries to your breakfast cereal or yoghurt, grab an apple or banana as a snack, throw an orange in your bag to cut up at lunch and finish with a juicy pineapple or papaya for dinner. Aim to eat at least five portions of a variety of fruits and vegetables every day. 5. Curb sugar and processed foods - Cut down on sugary snacks, fizzy drinks, and processed foods. Swap them for natural sweeteners with a lower glycemic index like honey, maple syrup, stevia or coconut sugar but use them in moderation. Focus on whole foods - veg, lean proteins, whole grains, and healthy fats. These nutrient-rich foods help keep your blood sugar steady and support your thyroid, giving your overall health a boost. 6. Watch out for soya - Levothyroxine is a medication commonly prescribed to treat hypothyroidism. The potential impact of soya on levothyroxine absorption remains a topic of discussion. While some studies show no effect, others suggest it may influence absorption, particularly in women. To be on the safe side, it's advisable to avoid consuming soya close to the time you take your levothyroxine. A gap of at least four hours between the two should help prevent any potential interference with the medication's effectiveness. 7. Opt for healthy fats and nutrients that support your thyroid - Incorporate healthy fats into your diet with foods like avocados, nuts, seeds and olive oil. These fats help with hormone production and keep blood sugar levels stable. Include iodine-rich foods like seaweed, seafood, dairy and white fish - like cod and haddock - to support thyroid health, and don't forget selenium-rich options such as Brazil nuts, tuna, pork, eggs, cottage cheese and sunflower seeds. Make sure you're also getting enough vitamins B and D, either through food or supplements if needed, to keep your thyroid functioning well. 8. Find your perfect sleep temperature - Temperature regulation is a key factor for those with thyroid conditions, as fluctuating body temperatures can be a common issue. A cool room (around 65°F / 18°C) is ideal for sleep. 9. Go natural: A comfortable mattress is essential for restorative sleep, particularly for people with thyroid problems. Opting for natural, breathable materials that help create a toxin-free sleep environment, can be crucial in reducing inflammation and promoting better health. This is particularly beneficial for those with autoimmune thyroid conditions like Hashimoto's thyroiditis, as it minimises external stressors that can aggravate symptoms. 10. Careful with Coffee - A
Scotsman
06-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Scotsman
AI Reveals the UK's Dreams: New ‘Sleep Census' Visualises National Nightmares and Fantasies
Watch more of our videos on and on Freeview 262 or Freely 565 Visit Shots! now For the first time, Britain's sleeping subconscious has been uncovered. Over the course of one week, Simba, the sleep tech brand, conducted the first-ever Dream Census, capturing and analysing the dreams of 2,000 UK adults to uncover the stories playing out behind closed eyes. The research reveals a nation caught between anxiety and escapism, with stress-fuelled nightmares gripping some sleepers, while others dreamt of soaring into adventure. Sign up to our daily newsletter Sign up Thank you for signing up! Did you know with a Digital Subscription to Edinburgh News, you can get unlimited access to the website including our premium content, as well as benefiting from fewer ads, loyalty rewards and much more. Learn More Sorry, there seem to be some issues. Please try again later. Submitting... The findings, conducted in partnership with Simba's charity partner, The Sleep Charity, paint a compelling portrait of the UK's collective subconscious. At the heart of the research is a question: Are we running towards something, or away from it? The findings underscore a striking contrast between stress and escapism in Britain's subconscious. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad A quarter (25%) of UK adults found themselves trapped in anxiety-driven dreams, whether being chased, lost, or running late, while over a fifth (23%) of those surveyed escaped into more uplifting dreamscapes, filled with romance, adventure, and the sensations of success. Britain's Week of Nightmares Women were notably more likely to experience stress-heavy dreams (30% vs. 20% of men), while men were more prone to surreal or fantastical dream worlds (19% vs. 12% of women). Nostalgia remained a dominant theme, with reuniting with someone from the past emerging as the nation's most common dream (13%). Some of us dreamt of soaring weightless above the clouds, whilst over a quarter [26%] of people recalled finding themselves in new romantic encounters or reliving cherished memories from the past. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad To bring these dreams (and fears) to life, Simba has leveraged advanced generative AI, marking a world first in sleep research. By analysing the descriptions of thousands of real dreams, AI-generated imagery visually reconstructs the science of the subconscious, offering a never-before-seen glimpse into the nation's sleeping mind. Britain's Week of Dreaming Lisa Artis, Deputy CEO of Simba's charity partner The Sleep Charity, explains: "Dreams are the brain's way of processing emotions, memories, and stress. The fact that so many people are dreaming about being late, being chased, or feeling trapped suggests that high levels of daily anxiety and stress are carrying over into sleep." The UK's most common nightmares reflect deep-seated anxieties and primal fears, with over 1 in 10 [11%] of Brits experiencing nightmares about being chased, lost, or trapped, followed by a further 16% of adults experiencing fears of falling, being unable to move or even the classic horror of teeth falling out. The external world also plays a role in shaping our dreamscapes. Personal relationships proved to be the strongest influence, with over a third [34%] of people finding their dreams rooted in real-world connections. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad Financial stress was another major factor, affecting nearly 1 in 4 [23%] of sleepers, while work pressures weighed heavily on the subconscious of a further 22% of those surveyed. Rendering the Dreamscape Meanwhile, TV, films, and books before bed influenced 19% of dreams, with news and politics shaping the thoughts of 18%, showing how daily experiences and global events infiltrate even our most intimate dream states. The study also uncovered a phenomenon Simba has termed 'Dream Surge.' Saturday night saw the highest volume of recalled dreams, with more people remembering their dreams on Sunday morning than on any other day of the week. Experts suggest this could be due to longer weekend lie-ins, which allow for deeper, extended sleep cycles, increasing dream intensity and recall. Additionally, the well-documented 'Sunday Scaries' - anxiety about the week ahead - may contribute to a rise in emotionally charged dreams. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad Steve Reid, CEO of Simba, comments: "Dreams are a reflection of our deepest subconscious. Now, by bringing this research to life with cutting-edge AI, we can start to make connections to our lives out of bed. Ultimately, being more aware about what fuels our dreams helps us understand ourselves and how we can better protect our sleep quality." Reid continues: "Restorative sleep starts with the right conditions, and that includes high-quality essentials like mattresses, toppers, pillows and duvets. At Simba, we use innovative design and materials across our range to support deeper, more consistent sleep, helping people rest better, recover overnight, and wake feeling more refreshed. This includes our patented titanium alloy Aerocoil® springs, 'cool-touch' Stratos® technology, and other features developed to actively enhance sleep quality." Despite these vivid dreamscapes, not everyone remembers what happens in their sleep. While 13% of Brits recall a dream almost every night, a third rarely remember them at all, suggesting that for many, the subconscious remains just out of reach.
Daily Mirror
02-05-2025
- Climate
- Daily Mirror
Sleep better during a heatwave by making one key change to your bedding
As temperatures soar across the UK, many Brits are struggling to get a good night's sleep in the heat. Here are some top tips for keeping cool in bed during a heatwave The UK's latest hot spell has left many Brits struggling to sleep at night. With our homes designed for a more temperate climate, the lack of air conditioning and well-insulated buildings can make indoor conditions stifling when the weather is as warm and humid as it currently is. So, how can you keep cool in the bedroom? Prof Kevin Morgan, former director of the Clinical Sleep Research Unit at Loughborough University, and Lisa Artis, of the Sleep Council has shared some important dos and donts to ensure you get a good night's sleep during this heatwave. No napping Firstly, avoid napping. The hot weather can make us feel lethargic during the day as we use more energy to regulate our internal temperature. READ MORE: Worst mistakes gardeners can make in hot weather as heatwave arrives in UK However, if your sleep is disturbed at night, try to resist daytime naps. When it's hot, sleepiness can be precious - save it for bedtime. Keep to routines The hot weather might tempt you to change your habits, but don't. This can disrupt your sleep. Try to maintain your usual bedtime and routines. Don't forget the basics Do everything to keep your room as cool as possible. It might sounds obvious but things like drawing the curtains or blinds to keep out the sun. during the day can really help. Close the windows on the sunny side of your home to keep out hot air. Before you go to bed, open all the windows to get a through breeze. Thin sheets will absorb sweat Lastly, opt for thin sheets. Reduce your bedding but keep covers nearby. Thin cotton sheets will absorb sweat. However warm your bedroom may be, your body temperature will drop during the night. This is why we often wake up feeling chilly. Chill your socks Using even a small fan can be a wise move in hot weather, particularly humid weather. It aids in sweat evaporation and makes it easier for your body to control your internal temperature. If you don't have a fan, consider filling your hot water bottle with ice cold water instead. Alternatively, chill your socks in the fridge and put them on. Cooling your feet reduces the overall temperature of your skin and body Stay hydrated Ensure you drink enough water throughout the day but avoid consuming large quantities before bed. You probably don't want to wake up thirsty - but you also don't want to make an extra trip to the bathroom in the early hours. Ditch soft drinks Soft drinks contain large amounts of caffeine, which stimulates the central nervous system and makes us feel more awake. Avoid drinking too much alcohol as well. Many people drink more when the weather is hot. Alcohol might help us fall asleep but it promotes early morning waking and a poorer quality of sleep overall. Stay calm If you finding it difficult to snooze, do something calming. Try reading, writing, or even folding your socks. Return to bed when you feel sleepy. Whatever you do - do not stimulate your brain with screen time - playing on your phone makes us feel less sleepy and keeps us more alert. Think of the children Children are usually quite robust sleepers - but they can be extremely sensitive to changes in routine and family "mood". Make sure usual bedtimes routines do not lapse just because it is warm. Lukewarm baths are recommended by the NHS UK website. Make sure they are not too cold, as that will boost circulation (your body's way of keeping warm). A baby cannot let you know if they are too hot or too cold, so it is important to monitor their temperature. They will sleep best when the room temperature is kept between 16C and 20C. Consider installing a thermometer where the baby is sleeping.
