Dr. Brett Hill - Eat Think Move Chiropractic

A good night's sleep is an essential part of a healthy lifestyle, however over 1.2 million Australians suffer from sleep disorders, costing the country $10.4 billion.

We spend one-third of our lives in bed, so it is extremely important to get a good night sleep. In fact poor sleep has been linked with low productivity, emotional disorders, impaired memory, fertility problems and many other health issues.

When it comes to getting a good night's sleep there are several things that you need to consider.

Diet is one major factor when it comes to sleep, in particular too many stimulating foods (especially late at night). Highly sugared and carbohydrate foods, alcohol and caffeine can all lead to a poor night's sleep.

Getting an adequate amount of exercise during the day is also vitally important if you want to sleep well at night. Regular exercise helps to switch off the stress response in your body allowing you to unwind and sleep properly. A good bed and pillow is also important, you may want some advice from your health care expert to ensure that you get the right bed for you and particularly the right, well fitted pillow.

Unwinding properly before bed time is also very important. So before you go to bed, switch off the TV, turn of the computer and take a little time to unwind and relax, perhaps meditate or read a book.

If you have tried all these things and still aren't getting a good night sleep then perhaps it is time to pay a visit to your local chiropractor. Not only are chiropractors the spinal health care experts, they are also university qualified to provide a range of advice on how to get straight to sleep, including mattress and pillow selection, nutrition and exercise.

Next week, the 19-25th of May is Chiropractic Care Week. The focus this year is on sleep disorders and the CAA has developed a free sleep handbook - the "Bedside Buddy". The "Bedside Buddy" contains information on topics such as sleeping posture, mattress and pillow ergonomics, tips for quality sleep, and provides patients with a sleep diary and checklist to help assess their sleep quality.

Throughout May, selected chiropractors from the CAA will be offering free spinal assessments and will also be on hand to provide advice on any pain or discomfort that is preventing Australians from getting straight to sleep.

For more information on National Chiropractic Care Week 2008 or to obtain a free "Bedside Buddy" sleep handbook, visit www.chiropractors.asn.au or contact the CAA hotline toll free on 1800 075 003.