We live in a time where the hustle never stops, and sleep often gets pushed to the backburner. We’re all guilty of pulling all-nighters or burning the midnight oil, thinking it’s the price we pay for success. But here’s the hard truth: sacrificing sleep for success can end up costing more than just your energy. Research from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention shows that a lack of proper rest is linked to serious health conditions like cancer, diabetes, and heart disease. It’s not just about feeling tired, it’s about your long-term wellbeing.
As you build the life you want for yourself and your loved ones, remember that good health is the foundation of everything. Sleep isn’t a luxury; it’s essential for your body and mind to function at their best.
It’s easy to assume that staying up late or waking up early to get ahead will eventually make you more successful, but the reality is that it could be putting your health on the line. Here's how poor sleep can impact your body:
Cancer
When you’re asleep, your immune system is working hard to fight off abnormal cells. Without enough sleep, your immune system becomes weaker, which makes it harder for your body to detect and destroy cancerous cells. Not only that, but poor sleep can disrupt your hormones—especially melatonin, which helps regulate your sleep cycle. Low melatonin levels have been linked to higher risks of certain cancers, including breast and prostate cancer. And when you don’t get enough rest, your body goes into a state of chronic inflammation, another factor that can promote cancer.
Diabetes
Sleep isn’t just about resting, it also affects how your body processes glucose. Insufficient sleep can cause insulin resistance, where your body’s cells don’t respond properly to insulin. This is a precursor to type 2 diabetes, which is becoming more common. So, while eating right and exercising are important, sleep should be part of the conversation when it comes to diabetes prevention.
Heart Disease
Your heart needs sleep to function properly. When you’re sleep-deprived, your blood pressure and heart rate increase, putting stress on your cardiovascular system. This can lead to hypertension and increase the risk of heart disease, strokes, and heart attacks. If you suffer from sleep apnea, a condition that disrupts your breathing while you sleep, it can cause irregular heart rhythms, making your heart even more vulnerable.
Why Sleep is Non-Negotiable for Success
It’s tempting to sacrifice sleep for work or productivity, but here’s the thing: when you don’t rest, your performance suffers. Getting quality sleep is essential to stay sharp, focused, and at the top of your game. In fact, better sleep can improve your cognitive function, help you think more clearly, and make smarter decisions. So, if you’re serious about achieving your goals, sleep needs to be part of the plan.
Here are a few simple habits that can help you sleep better and wake up feeling refreshed:
1. Aim for 6-8 Hours of Sleep
The average adult needs about 7 to 9 hours of sleep per night, but in the Philippines, 56% of people are getting less than 7 hours of sleep daily. Shortening sleep to get more done actually puts your health at risk. Prioritizing sleep can reduce the chances of heart disease, diabetes, and cancer.
2. Stick to a Consistent Sleep Schedule
Your body has an internal clock that works best when it follows a routine. Go to bed and wake up at the same time every day—even on weekends. This helps regulate your circadian rhythm, which makes it easier to fall asleep and wake up feeling well-rested.
3. Create a Relaxing Bedtime Routine
Wind down at least 30 minutes before bed by engaging in calming activities—reading, meditating, or stretching. This helps signal your body that it’s time to relax and get ready for sleep.
4. Limit Screen Time Before Bed
Looking at screens too close to bedtime can interfere with your ability to fall asleep. Try to turn off phones, computers, and other electronics at least 30 minutes before bed to give your body time to disconnect from the digital world.
5. Make Your Bedroom a Sleep Sanctuary
Your sleep environment matters. Keep your bedroom dark, quiet, and cool. Invest in a comfortable mattress and pillows, and consider using white noise or calming music if it helps you sleep better.
The Sleep Deprivation Problem in the Philippines
In the Philippines, the issue of sleep deprivation is becoming more widespread. According to the Fit Track Report by Milieu Insight, 56% of Filipinos are getting less than 7 hours of sleep daily. A report from the Sleep Cycle Survey also found that Filipinos average just 6.3 to 6.45 hours of sleep each night. This is concerning since chronic sleep deprivation is linked to obesity and various cardiovascular diseases, including heart attacks, strokes, and high blood pressure.
The Science Behind Sleep Deprivation and Health Risks
Dr. Rodolfo Dizon Jr., president of the Philippine Society of Sleep Medicine, has emphasized that a lack of sleep is not just about feeling tired—it’s a serious risk factor for long-term health problems, including obesity and heart disease.
Get Only the Best Protection for the Best
As you work hard to build a successful life, don’t forget to protect your health. If you’re serious about your future and want to ensure you and your family are covered in case of illness, AXA Health Max Elite is the plan for you. This superior comprehensive critical illness insurance offers protection for over 150 conditions, including 6 new pre-early conditions like benign tumors or suspected malignancies. That means even if a health issue is caught early, you are covered, and you can take action before things progress.
AXA Health Max Elite provides financial protection in case of serious illness, giving you peace of mind when life takes an unexpected turn. You won’t have to worry about medical costs when you focus on what really matters—your health and your future.
Take Action Today
If you want the best protection for you and your family’s health, take the next step and learn more about AXA Health Max Elite. Don't wait until it’s too late; invest in your health and security today.
Learn more about how AXA Health Max Elite can protect you here.