A U.S. survey finds that 52% of America's moms feel that more sleep would make them better parents and 65% feel they would be happier.

While tending to children keeps many mothers up at night, 36% of mothers are up at night thinking about the next day's "to-do list," 25% are stressing about family finances, and 24% are worrying about family issues, according to the survey of 500 moms by Braun Research.

 Fifty-four percent of mothers report not getting enough sleep, 59% of full-time working moms and 48% of stay-at-home moms. Although sleep problems are prevalent among mothers, four out of five have never spoken to their doctor.

Many have never considered a sleep medication for fear they may get addicted or they want to be alert should their children need them, according to sleep specialist Dr. Suzanne Griffin of Georgetown University Hospital. "There are sleep-aid options available that can help these sleepless parents without these types of side effects," said Griffin.

To get better sleep, Griffin recommends sticking to a bedtime schedule, avoiding alcohol, food and caffeine before bedtime, establishing a bedtime routine, creating a quiet, cool sleep environment and avoiding bringing problems to bed.

Dr. Joseph Gitto, BA, DC, CFMP, FDN, CWC

Advanced Chiropractic

Functional Nutrition

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609-484-9300

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