7 tips to stay healthy during night shifts

Moneycontrol News September 24, 2023

If you are someone who is on a night shift at work, you might know how difficult it is to establish a healthy routine.

Night shifts also alter your biological clock, making it difficult for the body to adapt since nights are for rest. So, here are some tips to stay healthy while working on a night shift.

Stick to a routine: You need to manage your time and plan out the day according to your night shift. Exercise, cooking, cleaning, sleeping, etc., should be done at a specific time.

Prioritise sleep: Sleep is very important as it is the body’s way to repair and heal itself. Stick to a schedule and prioritise rest as sleep deprivation can harm your well-being.

Practice good sleep hygiene: Since sleep is quite important, creating an environment where you can rest easily is too. So, opt for comfortable sheets and blankets, draw the blinds and avoid scrolling on your phone.

Exercise: To help fight the chance of becoming overweight and developing any heart disease or diabetes, night shift workers should have a strict exercise schedule as well.

Try to get some vitamin D: For those people who sleep during the day, getting a dose of vitamin D can be difficult. If you are unable to soak in the sun during the day, ask your doctor for a vitamin D supplement.

Watch your caffeine intake: Caffeine, when taken in moderation, helps you to stay active and boosts energy levels. However, if taken in excess, it can wreak havoc on the body as energy levels dip due to poor sleep. Opt for healthy snacks and water during shifts.

Avoid alcohol: Some people are enticed to use alcohol as a sleep aid. However, it disrupts a lot of functions in the body and can most likely keep you up during your sleep time.