Sleep is restorative. While you’re asleep, your brain is not inactive; it’s laying down memories and clearing out amyloids, a waste product left over from metabolic processes that in large amounts has been linked to Alzheimer’s disease.

Good sleep hygiene is key: Remove devices and distractions from your sleeping space, limit exercise within two hours of bedtime, avoid big meals and excess water before bed and, if all else fails, choose organic melatonin, Sleepytime tea or other natural products over other sleep aids.