1. Buy a Comfortable and Supportive Mattress
The best mattresses provide adequate support while also providing sufficient comfort. A good mattress salesman should be able to provide several choices that are compatible with the needs of an obese individual. There are, of course, the standard pillow-top mattresses that have been the usual choice for the average household. These come in various firmnesses, but you are tied to your choice once you have purchased one. You can also choose air-chamber mattresses that allow you to select the firmness that best meets your comfort and support requirements. Not only can you change the firmness according to your needs, but these mattresses also allow a person sharing the mattress to select the firmness he prefers on his side of the bed. There are also memory-foam mattresses that conform to the body while still providing support. These are supposed to alleviate the pain associated with bed springs. Once presented with these choices, it is best to try them out long enough to determine the comfort level of each one. While some stores will let you return mattresses, this is not the policy at all shops, so make sure you pick carefully.
2. Sleep in an Elevated Position
Once you have a comfortable mattress, you may still find that you are not sleeping well due to the digestive problems that are prevalent with obesity. Heartburn, indigestion and acid reflux are common issues that can keep you up all night. Sleeping in an elevated position with your head raised at least 6 inches above your stomach can keep acids and partially digested food from making their way up the esophagus, causing digestive ailments. You can elevate your head simply by arranging your pillows in such a way that relieves the symptoms. If you have a more serious case, there are convertible beds that allow you to achieve various positions at the touch of a button.
3. Refrain from Eating Right Before Bedtime
When you eat right before going to bed, you may find that it is hard to sleep comfortably. After eating, your body works hard to digest the food, and it is this digestive process that may prevent you from resting. Additionally, eating before bed can cause digestive problems. The solution is to eat at least two to three hours before going to sleep. This allows your body to do its work in enough time to ensure that you can still get to sleep in a timely manner. If you must eat close to bedtime, try limiting yourself to lighter foods or those that actually encourage sleep, such as celery or a few slices of turkey.
