Mercy's Carol Thelen, CRNP, Addresses Sleep Myths

Most people spend one-third of their lives sleeping, and there is a lot of misinformation out there when it comes to sleep.

According to Mercy certified nurse practitioner Carol Thelen of Mercy Personal Physicians at Lutherville, she frequently talks with patients about sleep. While she said there is such a thing as getting too much sleep, most people are not getting enough sleep.

"Sleep is really important, so your mind can renew, and your body can renew. We're not totally clear on all the processes, but apparently it is affecting a lot of our hormonal things that control weight, control stress, even heart disease," Thelen said.

Getting by on less than seven hours of sleep each night is a big myth. Most people need at least that much.

General ways to improve your sleep include cutting out caffeine after 2 p.m., limiting alcohol, sticking to a nightly routine, exercising and stepping away from smartphones or tablets before bed.

To view Mercy certified nurse practitioner Carol Thelen’s interview regarding sleep myths, click here.