Poor & irregular sleep can lead to risk of heart health issues

Feb 20 2023

Poor sleep quality and irregular sleep patterns could increase the risk of cardiovascular disease, according to a study published in the Journal of the American Heart Association.

The study is one of the first to provide evidence of a connection between irregular sleep duration and timing and atherosclerosis.

Atherosclerosis is the build-up of plaque in arteries, which can lead to coronary heart disease, angina, heart attacks, strokes, and peripheral artery disease.

The authors defined sleep regularity as variations in sleep duration and timing. The study analyzed the sleep of over 2,000 participants, with an average age of 69, who took part in the Multi-Ethnic Study of Atherosclerosis.

Participants kept a sleep diary and wore a wristwatch that tracked their sleep and wake history, and underwent an at-home sleep study.

The study found those with irregular sleep duration were about 1.4 times more likely to have high coronary artery calcium scores, which increases the risk of some cardiovascular conditions, and were more likely to have carotid plaque and abnormal results from a test assessing blood vessel stiffness.

The findings could be due to a direct link between sleep and the heart, lifestyle factors, or both.

“This study is one of the first investigations to provide evidence of a connection between irregular sleep duration and irregular sleep timing and atherosclerosis,” said lead study author Kelsie Full, an assistant professor of medicine in the epidemiology division at Vanderbilt University Medical Center in Nashville.

Life’s Essential 8, the American Heart Association’s checklist for lifelong good health, includes eating healthy, being physically active, quitting tobacco, managing weight, controlling cholesterol and managing blood sugar and blood pressure.

The association recommends adults get seven to nine hours of sleep each night, which is more likely if you have sound sleep hygiene.

This would involve hitting the sack and waking up at the same time daily, whilst also avoiding caffeine after late morning, avoiding screen usage before bed, sleeping in dark, quiet rooms and restricting your bedroom for sleep and intimacy.

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Another day of Nadur spontaneous Carnival celebrations!

Feb 20 2023

Here are some shots from night three last of the Nadur Spontaneous Carnival celebrations.

Creative costumes, an unforgettable musical lineup and all-around festivity, the Nadur Carnival proved to be a massive success over the weekend – but it’s not all over just yet!

The jubilation saw thousands of Gozitans, Maltese and even foreigners heading down to Gozo’s Nadur to spend time with friends, make memories and let loose after up to two years of the carnival’s absence.

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Floats paraded through the streets of Gozo, each with its own theme, as attendees showed off their ingenuity in creating their own costumes.

The weekend celebrations were a collaboration between the Nadur Local Council, The Ministry of Gozo, G7 Events and MaltaDaily.

We hope everyone enjoyed and stayed safe, and hope to see you all next year!

#MaltaDaily

Photo Source: Max Russ

Roberta Metsola features on popular Spanish magazine ELLE

Feb 19 2023

European Parliament President, Roberta Metsola, took to social media to share her thoughts on the latest edition of Elle Spain, in which she features on the front page.

In the post, the Maltese MEP discusses her belief in the responsibility we have to make it easier for young women and what can be done to create a fairer and more equal society.

Metsola reflects on her own experience growing up as a proud Maltese, and how being a part of the European Union has allowed Malta and Gozo to expand beyond their geography. She notes that the EU has given young people the ability to dream and realize their potential, and has contributed to the success of Malta and other member states.

Despite acknowledging the failings and frustrations of the EU, Metsola still believes that it is the most successful political project in modern history. She believes that Europe can be even better than it is now and hopes to see continued progress in the future.

Metsola’s words are a powerful reminder of the responsibility we have to create a fair and equal society for all. It is important to recognize the progress that has been made, while also acknowledging that there is still much work to be done.

In particular, her emphasis on the potential of young people is an important message. The youth are the future of our society and it is vital that we provide them with the tools and resources they need to succeed. By creating a more equal and inclusive society, we can ensure that all young people have the opportunity to realize their potential.

Moreover, Metsola’s affirmation of the EU as a political project is important. While it is easy to focus on the shortcomings of political institutions, it is crucial to remember the positive impact that they have had. The EU has contributed to peace and prosperity in Europe, and it is important to continue working towards a better future for all.

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