Browse: Home / Sleep / The habits of women nursing in the middle of the night matter

Menu

Skip to content
  • About
  • Better Body Chemistry School
  • Book a health conversation
  • Speaking query
  • The “Big” Spoons
Header image

BBC

Small things can make a big difference to your health

advertisement

Menu

Skip to content
  • Home
  • Free Resources
    • 31 days to Better Body Chemistry
    • Willpower Report
    • Weight loss e-course
    • Better Body Chemistry for Expecting Moms
    • The ups and downs of insulin resistance
    • Candy Floss Boards
    • Weight tracker
    • Sound bites
  • Library
  • Shop
  • Lucky dip
  • Buy me a coffee
  • Video gallery
  • Contact

The habits of women nursing in the middle of the night matter

Posted by Dr Sandy on in Sleep | 931 Views | Leave a response
Tweet
Share
Pin
Share
modern mom breast feeding

The call of a hungry belly, must be answered. But, while providing for the need allows for bonding, it can be a little boring. So what do women get up to ?

One of the hardest things of being a new Mom – is the sleep disruption.

The call of a hungry belly, must be answered. But, while providing for the need allows for bonding, it can be a little boring. So what do Moms do, for a little entertainment, while feeding in the middle of the night ?

What do you do ?

This was the question, a group of researchers from the Psychology Dept of West Virginia University asked, 201 Moms nursing infants aged between 0 and 6 months in an on-line survey.

Awakenings in the middle of the night

All the Moms found themselves awake in the middle of the night, the younger their little one, the more disruptive the night time awakenings.

The average number of awakenings was 2.9 times, the average duration of the awakening, was 33.9 mins.

OUCH !

If you do the maths, that’s a wopping 98.31 minutes or 1½ hours of sleep missing.

Now, this is average – so there were Moms sleeping a whole lot more, and Moms sleeping a whole lot less.   As a rule, Moms who are breastfeeding tend to get more sleep, than those who formula feed – this is part physiology and part behaviour.

What nursing Moms get up to

Most Moms made use of these awakening minutes – engaging in a little multi-tasking.

  • 59 % of them checked their cellphone
  • 25 % turned on their tablet computer
  • 16 % cranked up the laptop/desk computer
  • 20 % whiled the time away in front of the TV

Now, on the surface, this looks like a smart move – a new Mom is SUPERBUSY, she doesn’t have as much time for connecting. Using this “unexpected” down time, to catch up with friends on facebook or veg out in front of the TV, should leave her feeling “better”.

Mmmmmmmmmmmmmm… should, but…..

It’s a light issue

Not really, these activities pro-long the nocturnal awakenings.

And pro-longed sleep deprivation NEVER makes you feel good, look good or think good. And when it happens, night in and night out, it takes a toll on your physiology……….. putting you at risk of depression, weight gain, even heart disease.

The reason for the trouble……………….. these devices spew out blue light.

And blue light…………….

The night valet in a panic

Upsets melatonin, this hormone is your night valet – you need him to be around to fall asleep. He is responsible for drawing the curtains, folding down the covers and popping a mint on your pillow.

Unfortunately, he is an old fashioned gentlemen, he comes from an era, when blue light was a day thing, not a night thing. Any time he is exposed to blue light, he runs and hides in a cupboard. When he is in the cupboard……………………… sleep eludes you.

When you’re awakened by a hungry belly and you switch on

the light, cellphone, tablet, computer or TV

he’s out of there…..

Of course, when you switch the device off and return to bed, he is still OUT OF THERE.

It takes him sometime to venture back out from inside the cupboard.

Delaying your sleep.

Longer awakenings

Leave you MORE sleep deprived and more grouchy the next day.

To avoid upsetting your sleep valet – you need to feed junior in “THE DARK”.

Okay, maybe DARK is not something you can do. Although, it is pretty amazing how well you can see in the dark when your eyes are acclimatized to the situation, you still run the risk of accidental ENCOUNTERS. Let’s face it, falling over the furniture or walking into a wall, is potentially more damaging, than losing a few minutes of sleep.

The “darkness” you’re aiming for, is the absence of blue light.

Darkness defined

Historically, the kind of light humans experienced at night, was fire light. It is still light, but it is red light.

Melatonin is OKAY with red light.

Feeding baby by candle light sounds “romantic” – and do-able. Resist the temptation to CHECK-IN with the world, spend those awakening moments fostering the sacred bond, between you and your infant.

Why don’t you give it a try.

You’ll sleep better. And feel better, both in the short-term and long-term.

NOTE : If you’re really a millennial and the idea of pottering around by candle light scares you, you can still use electricity, just ensure, the light you switch on – IS A RED LIGHT.


What are postpartum women doing while the rest of the world is asleep? J Sleep Research (2014) McBean AL, Montgomery-Downs HE.

Further reading

broccoli and breast milk

How to raise a child that loves vegetables

The secret to raising a child that loves eating  vegetables is to eat lots of vegetables when nursing because flavour preferences are created before 6 months

baby powered up on morning milk

Mother Nature’s milk blend changes on the hour

Mother Nature packages night time feeds so they are the perfect blend of nutrients, but she sleeps in a little sleeping potion too, helping everyone to sleep

night light spooking health

Only red light nights can protect kids from the boogeyman

That night light may not be protecting your child from the boogeyman – if the light is not red, it is aligned with the boogeyman.

 

Interested in learning more about the chemistry behind better sleep ?

Subscribe to E-spoons, to get e-mail updates once a month to learn how to keep your body chemistry balanced so you can sleep like a log.

View previous E-spoons.

Close

NOTE : Privacy & spam policy. Spoonful of Science will not rent, trade or sell the e-mail list to anyone. You can unsubscribe at any time by following the unsubscribe link.

Tweet
Share
Pin
Share
Posted in Sleep | Tagged blue light, breast feeding, cell phone, computer, infants, melatonin, nursing, sleep, TV

Connect with us

facebook you tube pinterest 40 Linkedin

Instagram

betterbodychemistry
@betterbodychemistry
Follow
Salads without fat are not as healthy as you might think. A study by Iowa State University found that low-fat or no-fat dressings prevent carotenoids from being absorbed, making them virtually non-existent in the body. This is because fats are needed to make carotenoids bioavailable. Enjoying salads with full-fat dressing will help maximize nutrition. If you're eating vegetables as the main course, serve them with a little fat to get those important nutrients. Eating a balanced diet with both calories and nutrients will create better body chemistry and better health.

Click for more https://bsapp.ai/VOrOWeq9b #betteryourhealth #healthyeating #salad #bioavailability #healthytips #carotenoids #betterbodychemistry #nutrition #healthyfood #fats #healthylifestyle
betterbodychemistry
betterbodychemistry
•
Follow
Salads without fat are not as healthy as you might think. A study by Iowa State University found that low-fat or no-fat dressings prevent carotenoids from being absorbed, making them virtually non-existent in the body. This is because fats are needed to make carotenoids bioavailable. Enjoying salads with full-fat dressing will help maximize nutrition. If you're eating vegetables as the main course, serve them with a little fat to get those important nutrients. Eating a balanced diet with both calories and nutrients will create better body chemistry and better health. Click for more https://bsapp.ai/VOrOWeq9b #betteryourhealth #healthyeating #salad #bioavailability #healthytips #carotenoids #betterbodychemistry #nutrition #healthyfood #fats #healthylifestyle
12 hours ago
View on Instagram |
1/9
Feel better and boost your immune system by cultivating your microflora! Learn how to bring the bacteria indoors and improve your gut diversity. 

Click for more https://bsapp.ai/SnMIRwB1Z #BetterBodyChemistry #digestivehealth #Microbiome #bacterialdiversity #holistichealth #guthealth #healthyhabits #healthygut #probiotics #naturelover #Microflora #naturalhealth
betterbodychemistry
betterbodychemistry
•
Follow
Feel better and boost your immune system by cultivating your microflora! Learn how to bring the bacteria indoors and improve your gut diversity. Click for more https://bsapp.ai/SnMIRwB1Z #BetterBodyChemistry #digestivehealth #Microbiome #bacterialdiversity #holistichealth #guthealth #healthyhabits #healthygut #probiotics #naturelover #Microflora #naturalhealth
1 day ago
View on Instagram |
2/9
The Power of Isthmin 1: A Frog Protein With Big Sugar Control Potential"

Click for more https://bsapp.ai/nqUWJo-uR #hyperinsulinemia #sugarcontrol #glucosecontrol #insulinresistance #isthmin #insulin #healthtips #betterbodychemistry #healthstrategies #adipokine #diabetes
betterbodychemistry
betterbodychemistry
•
Follow
The Power of Isthmin 1: A Frog Protein With Big Sugar Control Potential" Click for more https://bsapp.ai/nqUWJo-uR #hyperinsulinemia #sugarcontrol #glucosecontrol #insulinresistance #isthmin #insulin #healthtips #betterbodychemistry #healthstrategies #adipokine #diabetes
5 days ago
View on Instagram |
3/9
It's not just about starting insulin production after a meal - stopping it is just as important! Learn how dopamine helps regulate this process in our latest post.

Click for more https://bsapp.ai/mI_TvvcPf #Parkinsons #dopamine #glucose #betacells #Dopaminehit #insulin #ldopa #Diabetes #BetterBodyChemistry
betterbodychemistry
betterbodychemistry
•
Follow
It's not just about starting insulin production after a meal - stopping it is just as important! Learn how dopamine helps regulate this process in our latest post. Click for more https://bsapp.ai/mI_TvvcPf #Parkinsons #dopamine #glucose #betacells #Dopaminehit #insulin #ldopa #Diabetes #BetterBodyChemistry
6 days ago
View on Instagram |
4/9
The Home Harmony Bundle just went live. It's full of things that will help you turn your home into a sanctuary.

And the cool part...... the resources inside the bundle of free. All you have to do is sign up and "GO SHOPPING" 

You can find the link in my bio.
betterbodychemistry
betterbodychemistry
•
Follow
The Home Harmony Bundle just went live. It's full of things that will help you turn your home into a sanctuary. And the cool part...... the resources inside the bundle of free. All you have to do is sign up and "GO SHOPPING" You can find the link in my bio.
1 week ago
View on Instagram |
5/9
Time is precious, especially when it comes to your health. If you're using Metformin or concerned about your wellbeing, it's essential to understand the potential impact on your Vitamin B12 levels. The longer you use Metformin, the greater the risk of a Vitamin B12 deficiency, which can lead to various health issues, including nerve problems. In our blog post, we shed light on the connection between Metformin and Vitamin B12, the reasons why it's important, and what you can do to maintain your health. Take the first step in safeguarding your wellbeing – check out the link in our bio for this crucial information.  To find this story, search 'Metformin and Vitamin B12' in our Library Page in Bio

Click for more https://bsapp.ai/Q9Zq5R2oT #Bacteroides #GutHealth #VitaminB12Deficiency #MetforminEffects #GutMicrobiome #VitaminB12Supplements #metformin #DiabeticNeuropathy #DiabetesManagement #BacterialBiology #DiabetesCare
betterbodychemistry
betterbodychemistry
•
Follow
Time is precious, especially when it comes to your health. If you're using Metformin or concerned about your wellbeing, it's essential to understand the potential impact on your Vitamin B12 levels. The longer you use Metformin, the greater the risk of a Vitamin B12 deficiency, which can lead to various health issues, including nerve problems. In our blog post, we shed light on the connection between Metformin and Vitamin B12, the reasons why it's important, and what you can do to maintain your health. Take the first step in safeguarding your wellbeing – check out the link in our bio for this crucial information. To find this story, search 'Metformin and Vitamin B12' in our Library Page in Bio Click for more https://bsapp.ai/Q9Zq5R2oT #Bacteroides #GutHealth #VitaminB12Deficiency #MetforminEffects #GutMicrobiome #VitaminB12Supplements #metformin #DiabeticNeuropathy #DiabetesManagement #BacterialBiology #DiabetesCare
1 week ago
View on Instagram |
6/9
Want to learn more about what an eye healthy diet looks like ?

As part of the HOME HARMONY bundle, I'm offering an exclusive workshop on eye health, unveiling the power of diet in maintaining clear vision and preventing age-related macular degeneration. 👁️✨

Get this workshop and tons of other goodies FOR FREE, in this amazing bundle. The bundle's waitlist is open now, it goes live tomorrow. Don't miss your chance to unlock the secrets to a well-rounded and healthy lifestyle. 📆🚀

You can find the link to sign up for the bundle in my bio.
betterbodychemistry
betterbodychemistry
•
Follow
Want to learn more about what an eye healthy diet looks like ? As part of the HOME HARMONY bundle, I'm offering an exclusive workshop on eye health, unveiling the power of diet in maintaining clear vision and preventing age-related macular degeneration. 👁️✨ Get this workshop and tons of other goodies FOR FREE, in this amazing bundle. The bundle's waitlist is open now, it goes live tomorrow. Don't miss your chance to unlock the secrets to a well-rounded and healthy lifestyle. 📆🚀 You can find the link to sign up for the bundle in my bio.
1 week ago
View on Instagram |
7/9
What does insulin do in the liver? It helps signal the liver to stop making sugar and fatty acids. Find out more about how insulin works and how to improve insulin clearance with our latest article

Click for more https://bsapp.ai/EP_GZjh4a #InsulinResistance #healthyeating #vegetableoils #NAFLD #omegasix #pediatricobesity #FattyLiver #InsulinClearance #LiverHealth #healthylifestyle #BetterBodyChemistry #fattyliverdisease
betterbodychemistry
betterbodychemistry
•
Follow
What does insulin do in the liver? It helps signal the liver to stop making sugar and fatty acids. Find out more about how insulin works and how to improve insulin clearance with our latest article Click for more https://bsapp.ai/EP_GZjh4a #InsulinResistance #healthyeating #vegetableoils #NAFLD #omegasix #pediatricobesity #FattyLiver #InsulinClearance #LiverHealth #healthylifestyle #BetterBodyChemistry #fattyliverdisease
1 week ago
View on Instagram |
8/9
Are you experiencing symptoms of anemia, such as fatigue or weakness? Did you know that anemia can impact your blood sugar levels and cause health complications? Schedule a one-on-one health conversation to learn how you can improve your health 

Click for more https://bsapp.ai/aVX5jr4Ha #haemoglobin #anemia #glycatedhaemoglobin #iron #sugars #functionalirondeficiency #health #irondeficiency #bloodsugar #HbA1c #betterbodychemistry
betterbodychemistry
betterbodychemistry
•
Follow
Are you experiencing symptoms of anemia, such as fatigue or weakness? Did you know that anemia can impact your blood sugar levels and cause health complications? Schedule a one-on-one health conversation to learn how you can improve your health Click for more https://bsapp.ai/aVX5jr4Ha #haemoglobin #anemia #glycatedhaemoglobin #iron #sugars #functionalirondeficiency #health #irondeficiency #bloodsugar #HbA1c #betterbodychemistry
1 week ago
View on Instagram |
9/9
View on Instagram

FEELING….

sign posts then you need better body chemistry.

Grab our free E-course

“31 days to better body chemistry”

The advice is simple to follow and based on REAL science, not hype

Need more information ? Click here

  • Popular
  • Featured
  • Recent
  • asprosin the sugar plum fairy

    Why sugar levels are high despite NOT eating

    22126 views / Posted
  • poop getting stuck

    The fix for constipation is to go on a low fibre diet

    21252 views / Posted
  • oatmeal breakfast being beaten by egg

    Which is a better breakfast, egg or oatmeal ?

    19759 views / Posted
  • chewing gum relieving postoperative ileus

    A stick of chewing gum gets the gut going after surgery

    16836 views / Posted
  • carbonated water bubbles fill you up

    Fizzing up the water flattens your appetite

    15728 views / Posted
  • sun extracting cholesterol

    Make sure you have your “annual” check-up in the summer time

    / Dr Sandy
  • sending your kid to bootcamp won't stop childhood obesity

    Moving more won’t stop your kid from getting fat

    / Dr Sandy
  • cholesterol at the scene of the accident

    Bone cells are stiffening up your arteries not cholesterol

    / Dr Sandy
  • brain size the problem in ADHD

    Are kids with ADHD just acting according to their brain age

    / Dr Sandy
  • plastering the blood vessel with calcium

    Calcium supplements are building bones and breaking hearts

    / Dr Sandy
  • fat cell groom trying to pull triglyceride bride over the threshold

    Go on a diet even if you think you have nothing to lose

    / Dr Sandy
  • img-40

    The vitamin B12 heist that happens when you take metformin

    / Dr Sandy
  • hepcidin waving his calculator with cell city and ferriportin pump in the background

    Iron loaded macrophages

    / Dr Sandy
  • img-42

    Unlocking the Hidden Dangers of Iron Supplements

    / Dr Sandy
  • baby bottle sitting in a sea of tiny plastic particles

    Guarding Your Baby’s Gut: The Alarming Reality of Microplastics in Bottles

    / Dr Sandy

RSS Recent posts

Dr Sandy Dr Sandy Evans, PhD

Located in Johannesburg, South Africa

Disclaimer : The stories and articles are provided as a service. Dr Sandy's opinions are for information only, and are not intended to diagnose or prescribe. For your specific diagnosis and treatment, consult your doctor or health care provider.
 

Book an appointment

Calendar icon
 

Connect with Dr Sandy

facebook 40
you tube 40
pinterest 40
linkedin 40
 

Categories

Featured posts

  • asprosin the sugar plum fairy

    Why sugar levels are high despite NOT eating

    22126 views / Posted
  • poop getting stuck

    The fix for constipation is to go on a low fibre diet

    21252 views / Posted
  • oatmeal breakfast being beaten by egg

    Which is a better breakfast, egg or oatmeal ?

    19759 views / Posted
 

©2011-2023 Spoonful of Science

Menu

  • Meet Dr Sandy
  • Disclosure/disclaimer
  • Privacy policy
  • Comment policy
  • Contact
Tweet
Share
Pin
Share