No coffee in the 2nd night shift half

Avoid sleep disorders as a result of shift work

05/01/2015

Many shift workers are struggling with sleep disorders as their sleep patterns get confused by the night shifts. Among other things, those affected should pay more attention to their diet in order to minimize sleep problems, reports the news agency „dpa“ with reference to the Association of Plant and Factory Physicians (VDBW).

The impairments of the natural sleep rhythm as a result of reworking can bring significant health risks, according to the VDBW. For example, recent research results have revealed evidence of a connection of the shift service with cancer. In order to avoid disturbing sleep as much as possible, the Vice President of the Association of Plant and Factory Physicians, Anette Wahl-Wachendorf, advises, among other things, to pay attention to some details in the diet, according to the announcement of the „dpa“.

To critically evaluate coffee and high-fat foods
For example, shift workers should stop drinking coffee during the second half of their night shift, the expert recommends. Often, the shift workers anyway had trouble falling asleep after work and the caffeine keeps many additional awake, so Wahl-Wachendorf. Furthermore, workers in shift work, who suffer from sleep problems, according to the VDBW Vice President better fat-rich foods such as pizza waive, as these can be difficult to stomach, reports the „dpa“.

Darken the bedroom
In addition, to avoid sleep after the night shift, the bedroom should be darkened as possible, as well as people who are not particularly sensitive to light, sleep much worse during the day than at night, Anette Wahl-Wachendorf explained in the release of „dpa“. Optionally opaque Venetian blinds or blinds can help here. Also, attention should be paid to the correct temperature in the bedroom. According to the expert, a room temperature below 20 degrees is recommended here.

Sleeping pills only after consultation with the doctor
It is not uncommon for people affected by sleep to resort to sleeping pills, which, however, is critically evaluated from a medical point of view. Regular use is strongly discouraged in view of the impending dependence and possible serious side effects. An occasional application is, however, in the opinion of Anette Wahl-Wachendorf quite reasonable, if working people have significant problems falling asleep, the release of the „dpa“. However, in view of the health risks, a doctor should always be consulted prior to the application, Wahl-Wachendorf further explains. (Fp)