Everyone knows that we feel better after a good night’s sleep. Tossing and turning, getting to bed too late, or sleeping in an uncomfortable manor can contribute to a lack of energy and make us moody. The proper amount of good sleep will increase focus and make us happier.

In addition to energy benefits, sleep also helps with physical health. The following is a list of the reasons why you should be sure to get your rest.

• Sleep helps the heart - When asleep, our hearts operate at a very reduced pace, so the more you sleep, the less your heart has to work. Additionally, not enough sleep has been shown to help cause high cholesterol and blood pressure, which are both fairly serious problems.

• Sleep boosts the immune system. During sleep, disease fighting hormones, such as cortisol and melatonin, are produced. In addition to providing defense against common colds and infections, these cells also can prevent cancer causing cell damage.

• Long-term memory will be improved - Since long-term memories are put together during sleep, more sleep will allow our brains more time to store memories. Additional sleep can usually help with forgetfulness.

• Sufficient sleep can help prevent depression. A common factor of those who are depressed is too little of serotonin, which is produced during sleep.

• Sleep influences weight - Research has suggested that sleeping less than 7 hours a night increases the chances of obesity. It is believed that this is because lower amounts of leptin, the appetite suppressant, are produced, which means that you will want to eat more, even if your body doesn’t need it. Additionally, the body contains raised levels of ghrelin, which encourages appetite.

• During sleep is when the body mends wounds - New cells are produced, which replace old and inefficient cells. Cell regeneration is a major part of being healthy.

Enough sleep helps our focus, work, mood, and health. The body uses this time to repair damages, as well as produce important chemicals, such as the disease fighting hormones. Going to bed earlier is something fairly easy that can greatly improve health.