Why Sleep is Essential According to a Gastroenterologist

Gastroenterologist Dr. Palaniappan Manickam emphasizes the significance of sleep for our overall health and gut function.

He asserts that good sleep is as crucial as a balanced diet and regular exercise. In today's world, many claim to thrive on minimal sleep, but Dr. Manickam argues against this notion.

In a recent Instagram post, he highlighted that sleep is not merely a passive state but an active phase where metabolic repair occurs. "Sleep isn’t optional. It’s where your gut repairs, hormones reset, and metabolism heals," he stated. He advocates for prioritizing sleep to enhance overall health.

According to Dr. Manickam, poor sleep can undermine diet and exercise efforts. Gut microbes follow a daily cycle aligned with sleep, producing beneficial metabolites that reduce inflammation and support the gut-brain axis. Disrupting this cycle can diminish beneficial gut bacteria, leading to increased cravings and risks of diabetes, obesity, and heart disease.

Three Key Steps for Better Sleep

• Establish a consistent bedtime and wake-up time.
• Get ten minutes of natural sunlight exposure in the morning to regulate melatonin.
• Finish dinner at least three hours before bedtime.

Prioritizing sleep can significantly improve gut health and overall well-being, making it a non-negotiable aspect of a healthy lifestyle.