Welcome to your monthly dose of health and wellness information. Each month, we'll dive into practical tips, evidence-based advice and the latest developments in different fields of medicine.

Mass General Brigham physicians have had the privilege of caring for thousands of Bermudian patients in Boston over the years, spanning a wide variety of conditions and complexities.

November is Diabetes Awareness Month, an important reminder in Bermuda, where more than 13 per cent of adults are estimated to have diabetes. Dr James Mojica, a sleep medicine specialist at Massachusetts General Hospital, explains why good sleep matters.

How can sleep help protect our long-term health?

Sleep is a biological process that repairs your body and restores your brain. Without that nightly housekeeping, there can be disturbances in memory, mood, blood sugar control, metabolism and immunity. Sleep is one of the American Heart Association’s ‘Essential 8’ — alongside diet, exercise, blood sugar, weight, cholesterol and blood pressure management and avoiding tobacco – for maintaining good health.

What is the connection between poor sleep and type 2 diabetes?

Lack of sleep and interrupted sleep can increase blood sugar and worsen insulin resistance. Conversely, getting good sleep lowers blood sugar, improves the body’s response to insulin and helps with diabetes management.

Why is sleep apnoea a concern for people with diabetes?

Diabetes increases the likelihood of developing sleep apnoea. Sleep disturbances and low oxygen levels related to sleep apnoea can impair blood sugar control and worsen insulin resistance. The relationship is bidirectional: sleep apnoea worsens diabetes and poor diabetic control worsens sleep apnoea.

What can people do to improve their sleep?

Sadly, there are no shortcuts! Protect seven to eight hours for nightly sleep in a dark, cool and quiet environment. Rise at the same time each day, get 30 minutes of sunlight in the morning and allow time to unwind in the evening before heading back to your sleep “cave“.

When should someone talk to their doctor about their sleep?

If you ever have difficulty falling or staying asleep, struggle to stay awake during the day or have been told that you snore or stop breathing during sleep, you should reach out to your doctor.

If you would like to request an appointment or learn more about care at Mass General Brigham, contact our international patient services team at patientcare@mgb.org or visit MassGeneralBrigham.org/Bermuda. If part of your care planning includes insurance, we recommend speaking with your insurance company before requesting an appointment.

• James Mojica MD is clinical director and vice chief of the division of pulmonary, critical care and sleep medicine at Massachusetts General Hospital