The 5 Biggest Reasons You Wake Up Exhausted

Blocking out streetlights to make your room pitch black can help you fall asleep and stay asleep, but if daylight isn't able to creep in by morning, your body's circadian rhythm won't know that it's time to wake up. Use blinds or curtains that block out nighttime lights but still allow daylight to shine through.

Whether you're putting in overtime at work or getting sucked into catching up on Game of Thrones, staying up late means you're not getting enough hours of shut-eye. Most people need around seven, give or take, so if you're not getting that, then you'll wake up exhausted and cranky. Sleep deprivation can lead to eating more and can also weaken your immune system — hello, cold! Set a bedtime and stick to it (even on the weekends), and if you have to stay up late, try to sleep in a little in the morning.

If you're one of those people who purposely sets your alarm early so you can hit the snooze button and feel like you're getting more time in dreamland, then you're actually getting less. That extra snooze time is constantly being interrupted by the startling sound of your alarm, and the sleep you're getting in between beeps isn't quality sleep. Do yourself a favor and set your alarm later to sleep longer.

A glass of wine has many health benefits, such as reduced risk of heart attack and stroke, as well as increased bone strength. But if you drink that glass of vino too close to bedtime — or your one glass is really two or three — then it'll prevent you from having a restful night of sleep (even if you pass out fast). But if it's a cup of coffee you drank, then stimulating caffeine can make it almost impossible to fall asleep. Whether you're tossing and turning from alcohol or getting less sleep because of caffeine, you're sure to wake up weary. Limit the wine and coffee before bed to ensure you get your zzz's.