What things should I avoid close to bedtime?

Exercise
Avoid exercising within three hours of bedtime,since exercise actually stimulates the body by speeding up the heart rate and metabolism. Exercising on a regular basis (during the day, ideally) may help you sleep well at night.

Smoking
Nicotine is a stimulant that can keep you awake. Avoid smoking in the six hours before your bedtime.

Alcohol
Although alcohol may seem to help you fall asleep, it may disrupt your normal sleep pattern during the second half of the night. It’s best to avoid alcohol before bedtime.

Caffeine
Caffeine can delay your sleep and cause you to wake up during the night. Avoid caffeinated drinks and foods (coffee, tea, cola, chocolate) after noon. You may want to try avoiding caffeine entirely and see if your sleep improves.

Liquids
Avoid drinking fluids before bedtime to decrease the chance of having the urge to go to the bathroom during the night.

How can a lack of sleep affect me?

• Increased risks for depression
• More likelihood of work errors, impaired concentration, slowed reaction time and poorer work performance
• Impatience
• Being cranky or irritable
• Higher incidence of workplace accidents, traffic accidents