FEATURES / SLEEP

The Mental Benefits of Being an Early Riser

Early birds are smart. They do better on tests of memory, reasoning and verbal ability than night owls. You can improve your sleep cycle. >

Sleep Problems? Why Some Kids May Stop Napping Early

Napping varies widely among kids. Some need more naps longer; others give it up early. It seems to be about brain development more than age. >

Daytime Eating is Best

Travelers, nurses, shift workers take note: eating late at night, particularly when your body clock has been disrupted, can stir depression. >

Selfish, Sleepy People

Being tired makes you stressed. It also makes you less likely to be kind. People who are sleep-deprived are less willing to help others. >

You'll Sleep Better in the Dark

Poor and interrupted sleep can set the stage for a variety of chronic ailments. Keep your room dark and avoid blue light. Amber is better. >

Things Men Do When It's Dark

When asked what keeps them up past their bedtimes, many men say they lose sleep to late nights playing video games and one other habit. >

Putting Anxiety to Sleep

During sleep, the brain reinforces positive emotions and weakens negative or traumatic ones, suggesting a way to help people with PTSD. >

Nighttime Is the Right Time to Go Dark

Your body can't rest and recharge properly during sleep if your room is not dark. Insulin resistance and heart problems may be the result. >

Snooze More, Lose More

A good night's sleep is a good way to lose weight. People who slept seven hours a night instead of six cut 270 calories from their diets. >

Melatonin Risks

People have been turning to melatonin supplements to help them sleep. It's not clear they work, and taking higher doses can cause problems. >

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