A treadmill may take the place of sleeping pills for middle-aged or older adults who suffer from insomnia. A new study to be published in the October 2010 issue of Sleep Medicine found that aerobic exercise helps reduce insomnia in people age 55 and older and helps them feel more focused and energetic during the day.
Insomnia in Older Adults
Insomnia becomes a concern to many people as they become middle-aged because sleep patterns begin to change as people age. Women in particular suffer from insomnia. Quality of sleep and sleep duration becomes a problem, which in turn can cause mood changes, depression, concentration problems and low energy. And, while taking a prescription sleep aid may be an option, for some people it may interact negatively with other medications they are taking. Finding a drug-free way for people to get a good night’s sleep is the preferred method.
Study on Aerobic Exercise and Sleep
Phyllis Zee, M.D., lead researcher of the study from Northwestern Medicine studied 23 inactive adults, mainly women, age 55 years and older who had reported having trouble falling asleep or staying asleep. Part of the group participated in aerobic activity, such as walking or using a stationary bike or treadmill. They exercised for two 20-minute time periods, four times per week or one 30 to 40 minute time period four times per week for 16 weeks. The non-active group participated in a non-physical activity such as cooking for 45 minutes, three to five times per week for 16 weeks. The participants who did the aerobic exercise reported improved sleep as well as fewer symptoms of depression, more energy and less sleepiness throughout the day.
Importance of Sleep for Your Health
Sleep is as important for your health as proper nutrition. A good night’s sleep can:
- Restore daily damage to cells
- Heal the body
- Lower the risk of obesity
- Lower the risk of diabetes
- Lower the risk of cardiovascular disease
- Lower stress levels
- Improves mood
- Lower depression levels
- Increase concentration
Zee feels the study’s findings are important because it finds a non-drug solution to sleep problems for a high majority of the population. Adding aerobic exercise to your lifestyle will not only improve your heart-health and control weight, but may also help you get a better night’s sleep.
Source:
Science Daily “Aerobic Exercise Relieves Insomnia”
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