How Healthy Are You? 10 Easy Self-Checks

Are You Getting Enough Sleep?

Chronic sleep deprivation contributes to obesity, heart disease, and diabetes, among other health hazards. Use the Stanford Sleepiness Scale below to evaluate how you feel throughout the day. Check at around 9 a.m. and 9 p.m., when people are usually most alert, as well as at several other points during the day, including right after breakfast and lunch and while you're driving.

1. Feeling active, vital, alert, or wide awake
2. Functioning at high levels but not at peak; able to concentrate
3. Awake but relaxed; responsive but not fully alert
4. Somewhat foggy
5. Foggy; losing interest in remaining awake; moving slowly
6. Sleepy, woozy, fighting sleep; prefer to lie down
7. About to fall asleep; having dreamlike thoughts

Usually > 3 = Poor
Usually < 3 = Good

Health Rx

Aim for seven to eight hours of sleep at the same time every night. Designate your bed for only sleep and sex -- no iPads, no eating, no television -- avoid caffeinated beverages after 2 p.m. and limit alcohol. If you're still feeling groggy during the day, consult your doctor; you may have sleep apnea.