What are the risks of sleeping less than 7 hours per night?

Science has already shown that this habit can trigger serious health consequences

Sleep deprivation is one of the most neglected health problems today. In the middle of the running routine, accumulated appointments and a culture that still glorifies productivity above rest, many people end up sleeping less than they should. Sleeping less than seven hours per night, recurrently, is far from harmless. Science has already shown that this habit can trigger serious physical, mental and emotional consequences.

Dr. Janaína Azevedo Santos Pacheco, neurologist and sleep medicine specialist, says that sleeping less than 7 hours per night can significantly increase the risk of various diseases. Among them:

• Cardiovascular disease* (hypertension, heart attack, stroke)
• Obesity and diabetes type 2*
• Falls into immunity*
• Depression and anxiety*
• Productivity, memory and concentration fall*
• Premature aging* and greater risk of dementia* in the long term

“In addition, there is a higher risk of road accidents and work, due to sleepiness and reduced reaction times,” he warns.

According to the National Sleep Foundation and the American Academy of Sleep Medicine, the ideal average for adults of both sexes is 7 to 9 hours of sleep per night.

“It is important to remember that it is not only the quantity, but the quality of sleep that determines the benefits. A fragmented sleep, even long, can be a little restoration,” he explains.

Investing in a coherent sleep routine, with regular times, dark environment and without digital stimuli before going to bed, is one of the most powerful habits for full health.

Source: Terra

Ben

Ben Stock is a lifestyle journalist and author at Gossipify. He writes about topics such as health, wellness, travel, food and home decor. He provides practical advice and inspiration to improve well-being, keeps readers up to date with latest lifestyle news and trends, known for his engaging writing style, in-depth analysis and unique perspectives.