Dr. Makinde says sleepless nights are silently fueling chronic illnesses—here’s how to reclaim healthy sleep.
Dr. Moyosore Makinde, Founder of Lifestyle Champions International (LCI) and President of the Society of Lifestyle Medicine of Nigeria, has sounded the alarm on sleep deprivation as a major driver of diseases during a webinar marking World Sleep Day in Lagos.
Speaking on “Sleep Well, Live Better: Unlocking the Power of Healthy Sleep”, Makinde stressed that skipping sleep is not a badge of productivity—it’s a recipe for health problems.
Citing global data, she said 42 million adults suffer chronic insomnia, costing the world $417 billion in lost productivity annually. In Africa and Asia, over 16% of people report severe sleep issues, impacting overall well-being and mental health.
Poor sleep, she explained, increases risks of hypertension, diabetes, obesity, cancer, cardiovascular disease, weakened immunity, poor focus, accidents, and reduced productivity. Common triggers include stress, irregular schedules, late caffeine, screens before bed, noise, and poor sleep environments.
Makinde offered practical tips for better sleep:
Keep a consistent sleep schedule and bedtime routine.
Wind down before bed; avoid screens 30–60 minutes prior.
Maintain a sleep-friendly environment—quiet, dark, and cool.
Eat light meals 3–4 hours before bedtime; high fiber preferred.
Exercise regularly but not close to bedtime.
Use relaxation techniques and avoid intense discussions or mindless scrolling at night.
She also highlighted educational tools like e-books, short videos, and consultations as ways to promote healthy sleep habits.
“Sleep is not a luxury; it’s a pillar of health. Adequate rest helps the brain cleanse itself and boosts immunity. Don’t underestimate it,” Makinde warned.
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