UK among 'world's worst' sleepers

Adults in the UK are some of the worst sleepers in the world, according to a survey.

In the survey of 1,000 people aged 18 and over, more than a third (37%) of Britons said they did not get the right amount of sleep.

People in India scored the best in the survey, carried out by Aviva, with 9%.

Twenty-nine per cent of families said they prioritised improving their sleep over reducing sugar intake and eating more healthily.

The survey of 13 countries also found that 25% of Britons list getting a better night's sleep as a priority.

It is the second most common health ambition, beaten only by wanting to lose weight or improve BMI.

Only half (51%) of parents said they ensure their children get the right amount of sleep with 49% admitting to using going to bed later as a reward for their children.

Dr Doug Wright, Medical Director for Aviva UK Health said people feeling like they are running on empty were "not alone".

He said: "The importance of getting a decent night's sleep should never be underestimated. Sleep plays an important role in mental and physical health, with your body using this time to renew and repair."

Tips to boost sleep levels

• Establish a routine

• Eat dinner earlier

• Avoid TV and mobile phone screens before bed

• Monitor sleep with trackers

• If stress, anxiety or other mental health issues are keeping you awake, seek advice from your GP