In a surprising study, researchers at the University of Chicago have discovered a method to detect sleep apnea or habitual snoring in children by screening their urine.

Using a test called electrophoresis to examine the urine, they were able to identify multiple proteins that are more common in children with sleep apnea compared to those who just snore or to normal controls.

Sleep apnea is relatively uncommon in children, occurring in about 1 to 3 percent under the age of nine. Perhaps four times as many snore. If this simple urine test can identify those at risk for apnea, it may minimize the need for the expensive and inconvenient sleep studies that are used in adults.

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In some ways, it's easy to miss out on sleep. Pushing back our bedtimes occurs naturally as we try to find more time in our days. We may not meet our sleep needs, but there can be more significant consequences than just feeling tired.

Research suggests that restricting the amount of sleep we get may lead to obesity. Sleep deprivation seems to affect our body's metabolism, and the hormonal changes result in weight gain.

As we approach the time for making New Year's resolutions, it may be a wonderful opportunity to commit yourself to better sleep habits, a commitment that may just improve your waistline.

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Night starts are typically experienced just as you drift off, somewhere between wakefulness and sleep.

You may suddenly have a sensation that you are falling, then awake suddenly. You may also experience muscle contraction, called myoclonic twitch, which can pull you back to wakefulness from the lightest stages of sleep. These events may also be called hypnic or hypnagogic jerks.

There is no clear cause for night starts, and the occurrence is not fully understood. In general, they seldom recur after falling back to sleep. Learn more about this condition and whether treatment is necessary.

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As the holiday season gets into full swing, your stress level is no doubt climbing as well. Whether the stress is from financial concerns, endless travel, a houseful of visitors, or the demands of making the most of your holidays, it can be a lot to handle. And your sleep may suffer.

It is important that you try to maintain your sleep schedule during these busy times. Keeping a regular bedtime as well as waking up at the same time every day will help you to sleep better. When you are better rested, you are also better able to cope with stress.

So don't become overwhelmed by the demands of the season. Instead, be sure to settle in consistently each and every night for your long winter's nap.

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