A good night’s sleep is crucial for good health. It is no less important than a healthy diet and physical activity. Unfortunately, due to a busy modern lifestyle people are sleeping less and less. This article presents 7 reasons why we should sleep more.
- Poor sleep leads to weight gain.
Poor sleep is associated with increased weight. People who sleep little normally weigh more. Short sleep duration is a major cause of obesity. Short sleep misbalances the hormones and reduces the motivation for physical activity.
- Sufficient sleeping people consume fewer calories
Probably you have already noticed that the less you sleep at night, the more food you eat during the day. People who do not sleep enough have a larger appetite and tend to consume more calories. Lack of sleep misbalances appetite hormones and causes hunger. Appetite is controlled by two hormones – ghrelin and leptin. Ghrelin stimulates appetite, leptin – inhibits it. With lack of sleep, ghrelin levels rise and leptin – decreases.
- A good night’s sleep improves productivity and concentration
Sleep is particularly important for different aspects of brain functions: cognition, concentration and productivity. These aspects are adversely affected if you are having a lack of sleep. Poor sleep harms the brain functions. Good night’s sleep improves problem-solving skills and memory.
- Good sleeping increases the physical capacity
Good sleep increases your speed, accuracy, reaction time and psychological state. Poor sleep is associated with a slower gait, weaker hand strength and greater difficulty with various physical tasks.
- Poor sleep is linked to heart diseases and stroke
The quality of sleep is closely related to various diseases. Short or poor sleep increase the risk of developing heart diseases or experiencing stroke. In order to avoid negative consequences, it is recommended to sleep 7-8 hours per nught. Also, pay attention to the quality of sleep. Try to sleep in a cool and ventilated room.
- Poor sleep is associated with depression
Mental disorders such as depression are closely linked to poor sleep quality or sleep disorders. People with depression in particular often complain about poor sleep.
- Sleep boosts the immune system
Even a slight lack of sleep weakens your immune system. The less people are sleeping, the easier they get sick.