Optimizing Sleep for Better Health

Sleep is not a luxury; it is critical to health and well-being. More than one in three U.S. adults don't get the recommended amount of sleep. Both quantity and quality of sleep play critical roles in health. Sleep plays a key role in energy utilization, muscle repair, immunity, cardio-metabolic health and mental health, resulting in its association with all ten leading causes of death in the U.S. This session explains the physiological and behavioral changes that occur when sleep is not optimized - changes that can lead to increased risk for heart disease, type 2 diabetes and obesity. Attendees will learn how RDNs can play an important role in addressing the importance of sleep quality and quantity and its impact on food choices and health. After this session, attendees will be able to use different screening tools to assess sleep habits and outcomes among their clients and be able to share tips with clients on ways to improve their sleep to assist them in improving their well-being. Attendees will understand how poor sleep can undermine their role as a healthcare provider and behavior change interventionalist.

CPE Level: Level 2 (intermediate knowledge/experience)
CPEU: 1.5

Performance Indicators

• 4.2.5 Analyzes and synthesizes information and identifies new information, patterns and findings.
• 9.4.5 Implements individualized teaching plans in order to promote, maintain and enhance nutritional health and learning
• 8.2.1 Engages in educational activities to maintain knowledge and to obtain new knowledge of diseases and clinical conditions.

Learning Objectives

• Describe the different stages of sleep and its impact on cardio-metabolic health and well-being
• Explain the impact of sleep quality and quantity on food choices and diet quality
• Identify the ways to assess sleep quality and quantity and the relevant education to support clients sleep and health

Moderator

• Satya Jonnalagadda, PhD, MBA, RDN

Speakers

• Robin M. Tucker, PhD, RDN, FAND
• Faris M. Zuraikat, PhD