Why undisturbed hours of sleep are so important
If you frequently wake up during the night, you're at an increased risk for uncontrolled stress, mood swings and cognition problems. And over time, wakefulness after sleep onset (WASO) increases your risk of high blood pressure, elevated LDL, cardiovascular disease, weight gain, metabolic syndrome, Type 2 diabetes and colorectal cancer.
This is of particular concern for women ages 45 and older, according to a study published in Sleep. Researchers found that WASO increases steadily starting in pre-menopause and peaking in the early 60s, when women average up to 17 minutes less continuous sleep than they did in their 20s. But there are solutions.
Hormone therapy (HT) is an effective -- and safe -- remedy for WASO. Recommendations are to start it within 10 years of your last period or before age 60. I think data will eventually show it may be safe any time after menopause symptoms begin. With HT, you sleep better as it protects against brain fog, hot flashes, heart woes, weight gain, vaginal dryness, bone loss and more. Women who've had a hysterectomy can take estrogen-only therapy, and according to a new study it provides a "modest but ... statistically significant protective effect" against Alzheimer's disease. Women with a uterus need HT delivering both progesterone and estrogen. Remember to talk to your doc about a taking baby aspirin along with HT -- that's because a major risk of HT is increased clotting.
For more info on dealing with age-related sleep issues and menopause symptoms, read my upcoming book, "YOU: Getting Older: The Owner's Manual for Your Golden Years."
Health pioneer Michael Roizen, M.D., is chief wellness officer emeritus at the Cleveland Clinic and author of four No. 1 New York Times bestsellers. Check out his latest, "The Great Age Reboot: Cracking the Longevity Code for a Younger Tomorrow," and find out more at www.4YOUngevity.com. Email your health and wellness questions to Dr. Mike at drmikerealage@gmail.com.
(c)2026 Michael Roizen, M.D.
Distributed by King Features Syndicate, Inc.
(c) 2026 Michael Roizen, M.D. Distributed by King Features Syndicate, Inc.
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