Media Coverage: Dr Dominic Greenyer Shares Expert Advice on Coping with Heatwave Sleep Disruption

As the UK experiences another period of extreme temperatures, Dr Dominic Greenyer, GP and Director at The Health Suite, has shared practical advice on how people can improve their sleep and protect their health during hot weather.

Featured in a national article examining the impact of heatwaves on sleep, Dr Greenyer explained that small adjustments to daily routines can make a meaningful difference when overnight temperatures remain high.

“Going to bed a little earlier and getting up slightly earlier can help you make the most of the coolest part of the night, rather than trying to sleep through the hottest hours after sunrise,” said Dr Greenyer.

He also highlighted the important role nutrition plays in maintaining comfortable sleep during a heatwave, recommending lighter evening meals that are easier for the body to digest.

“During a heatwave I’d lean towards lighter evening meals with plenty of vegetables, salad and a source of protein such as fish, chicken, eggs or beans. Foods with a high water content, like cucumber, watermelon and tomatoes, can also help contribute to your hydration.”

Hydration, he explained, should be approached proactively rather than reactively.

“Trying to catch up with a litre of water just before bed usually means repeated trips to the toilet overnight. It’s much better to drink regularly throughout the day so you’re well hydrated by the evening, then just sip water if you’re thirsty before bed.”

Dr Greenyer also reassured people that there is no need to eliminate entire food groups in an attempt to improve sleep.

“Eating enough during the day and avoiding going to bed overly full is generally much more important than eliminating any one food group.”

Creating a cooler bedroom environment is another simple but effective strategy.

“Keep curtains or blinds closed during the day, open windows once the outside temperature drops, use a fan if you have one, and choose lightweight cotton bedding.”

For those still struggling to cool down before bed, Dr Greenyer recommended simple cooling techniques.

“Even simple measures like taking a lukewarm shower before bed or placing a cool flannel on the back of your neck can help your body lose heat more effectively and make falling asleep that little bit easier.”

His expert commentary reinforces the importance of staying hydrated, adapting daily routines and optimising the sleep environment to reduce the health impacts of prolonged hot weather and heat-related sleep disruption.

Click here to read the complete article “Britain is suffering a mass sleep deprivation event – here’s how your body can cope better” in The Independent.