Sleep Your Way to a Healthier Heart: Why Sleep Made the AHA’s Top 8
Did you know that your sleep is now officially recognized as one of the top 8 pillars of heart health?
The American Heart Association recently updated their Life’s Essential 7 to Life’s Essential 8 — and they added healthy sleep to the list.
If you’re using your CPAP, this is big news. You're not just sleeping better — you're actively protecting your heart.
For years, we’ve known that sleep apnea increases the risk of high blood pressure, heart disease, stroke, and even sudden cardiac events.
But here’s the problem: most people think that 8 hours in bed automatically means good sleep.
If those hours are filled with breathing pauses, low oxygen, and constant arousals, that’s not healthy sleep — it’s stress on the body.
That’s why the AHA now considers sleep quality and duration just as important as nutrition, exercise, and blood sugar.
In short? Your heart needs healthy sleep.
So what is healthy sleep?
The AHA recommends 7 to 9 hours of sleep per night — but not just any sleep. It needs to be consistent, restorative sleep with enough oxygen and time in deeper stages.
For our sleep apnea community, this means:
✅ Using your CPAP or oral appliance regularly
✅ Restoring healthy oxygen levels
✅ Avoiding the harmful effects of untreated apnea
Think of your CPAP as more than a sleep tool — it's heart medicine.
Every night you use it, you’re supporting your blood pressure, your blood vessels, and your long-term cardiovascular health.
Your sleep isn’t just better — it’s essential, according to one of the most trusted voices in heart health.
So if you’re showing up and using your CPAP, give yourself credit. You’re doing something powerful.
And if you’re having trouble with your CPAP or still feel tired, don’t give up. That’s what I’m here for.
You’re on the path to better health, one night at a time.
Because healthy sleep is no longer optional... it’s essential.
