‘My sleep was poor for months – adding one thing to my diet has changed everything’

Poor sleep is a common issue that can have a significant impact on one’s overall health and wellbeing. The Mirror’s Amber O’Connor recently shared her experience of struggling with poor sleep for months and how making one simple change to her diet has transformed her sleep quality. While she managed to get the recommended eight hours of sleep, she still felt groggy and low on energy throughout the day. Amber decided to investigate the root cause of her poor sleep by getting a blood test. The results revealed that she had low levels of vitamin B12.

Despite maintaining an active lifestyle, Amber’s sleep tracker consistently showed lower sleep scores compared to her boyfriend’s. She often spent minimal time in deep sleep, which is essential for restorative rest. After her doctor prescribed vitamin B12 tablets, Amber noticed a significant improvement in her sleep quality. Her sleep score increased dramatically, and she began experiencing better quality deep sleep.

Amber’s story highlights the importance of identifying underlying health issues that may be impacting sleep quality. By addressing a vitamin deficiency through dietary changes and supplements, Amber was able to improve her sleep and overall wellbeing. It serves as a reminder that small adjustments to one’s diet and lifestyle can have a profound impact on sleep quality and overall health.

While technology like sleep trackers can provide valuable insights, it’s essential not to get too fixated on achieving perfect sleep scores. Sleep expert Sammy Margo emphasises the importance of using tracking as a tool for awareness rather than causing additional stress. Amber’s journey showcases the power of addressing health issues to improve sleep quality and highlights the potential benefits of seeking medical advice when experiencing sleep disturbances.

In conclusion, prioritising good sleep hygiene and seeking professional guidance when needed can lead to significant improvements in sleep quality and overall health. Amber’s experience serves as a reminder of the interconnectedness between diet, health, and sleep, and how making small changes can yield positive outcomes for wellbeing.