A recent study has challenged the widely-held belief that individuals need at least eight hours of sleep each night, suggesting that the optimal range is actually between seven to nine hours. Presented by China’s National Centre for Cardiovascular Disease at a European Society of Cardiology meeting, these findings have sparked discussions on the necessity of a full eight hours of sleep. Emeritus Professor Kevin Morgan from Loughborough University commented that most people need somewhere in the range of seven to nine hours of sleep, but there can be variations.
Moreover, the study highlighted the potential health benefits of catching up on sleep during the weekend. Researchers found that just an additional 1.28 hours of sleep could be advantageous, with a reduced risk of heart disease being linked to compensatory sleep. Lead author Yanjun Song emphasised that sufficient compensatory sleep could lower the risk of heart disease, particularly for individuals who experience insufficient sleep during the weekdays. This suggests that incorporating additional rest during the weekend may positively impact one’s health.
In addition to physical health benefits, sleep deprivation was found to have significant implications on daily life. A survey of 2,000 individuals revealed that 90% admitted to experiencing ‘tangry’, a combination of tired and angry, when sleep-deprived. Sleep expert Dr Sophie Bostock shed light on the issue, explaining that lack of sleep can alter emotional control centres in the brain, leading to increased sensitivity to stress and reduced self-control. Dr Bostock cautioned that sleep deprivation can result in impulsivity and aggression, highlighting the importance of adequate rest for overall well-being.
The study’s revelations challenge conventional notions about ideal sleep duration and underscore the importance of sufficient rest for maintaining physical and mental health. As discussions around sleep continue to evolve, researchers and experts are emphasising the need to prioritise quality sleep to support overall well-being.