Skimping on sleep can cause weight gain, add stress, and compromise your immune system. 

• 50% of people who sleep only 4-6 hours per night produce half the disease-fighting antibodies as people who get more sleep. - Journal of the American Medical Association

Here are some tips to get more rest:

• Limit eating and drinking alcohol in the hours before you sleep.  A large meal before bed can cause indigeston that interferes with sleep.  And alcoholic beverages before bed can result in less restful sleep and waking up frequently.
• Find a way to mentally wind down at the end of every day such as spending a few minutes in a quiet place, reading a book, or listening to soft music.
• Do your exercising early in the day- don't wait until right before bedtime.  There is some evidence that exercising within a couple hours of lying down reduces yours leep quality. 

This information was compiled from Diabetic Living, Spring 2012 issue.