A new scientific report suggests that how well you sleep may matter just as much as how long you sleep. Beyond counting hours, factors like falling asleep easily, maintaining a regular sleep schedule, and waking up refreshed all play a vital role in supporting heart health.

Sleep is so important, the American Heart Association recently added it to the Life’s Essential 8TM cardiovascular health checklist alongside diet, physical activity, blood pressure, cholesterol, blood sugar, weight, and nicotine exposure.

Why Sleep Is Good for Your Heart

When you sleep, your body enters a natural state of restoration that directly benefits your cardiovascular system. During deep, restful sleep, your heart rate and blood pressure naturally lower, giving your heart and blood vessels a much-needed break. This nightly “reset” reduces wear and tear on the cardiovascular system, allowing it to recover from the stresses of the day.

Sleep also helps regulate hormones that control hunger, stress, and blood sugar, factors closely linked to heart health. Without enough high-quality rest, the body produces more stress hormones, which can raise blood pressure and increase strain on the heart over time.

How Sleep Impacts the Heart

Poor or insufficient sleep can set the stage for serious cardiovascular problems. Research shows that people who consistently sleep fewer than 7 hours per night are more likely to develop conditions such as high blood pressure, irregular heart rhythms, obesity, diabetes, and even coronary artery disease. Interrupted or low-quality sleep has also been linked to inflammation, a process that plays a key role in the development of atherosclerosis, or plaque buildup in the arteries. Over time, this combination can significantly raise the risk of heart attack and stroke.

Our team of surgeons regularly treat cardiovascular conditions through advanced surgical and interventional procedures. While surgery may be necessary for some patients, we also emphasize the importance of preventive measures, such as prioritizing high-quality sleep, to support long-term cardiovascular health. By combining expert medical care with healthy lifestyle habits, patients can protect their hearts and improve overall well-being.

Tips to Improve Sleep & Support Your Heart

  • Aim for 7–9 hours of restful, uninterrupted sleep each night.
  • Set a consistent sleep schedule—even on weekends.
  • Make your bedroom a cool, dark, and calm environment.
  • Reduce or avoid caffeine and screen time close to bedtime.
  • Talk with your doctor if you regularly wake up tired or feel fatigued during the day—underlying sleep disorders may be present.

At CTVS, our commitment to heart health extends beyond surgery. We encourage our patients to make healthy lifestyle choices a top priority.

For questions about our thoracic, cardiac, or vascular services, visit ctvstexas.com or call us at (512) 459-8753 to schedule an appointment.

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