Getting enough sleep on a regular basis is one of the best things you can do to improve your quality of life and health. Studies have shown that sleep deprivation can lead to the formation of free radicals and oxidative stress in the body. Sleep deprivation has been linked to health problems like heart disease, diabetes, and even depression, so it’s important to make sure you’re getting a good night’s peaceful sleep every night.
How long should you sleep?
The National Sleep Foundation says adults aged 18-64 should get at least seven hours of sleep per night. People 65 and older may need more. Yet, more than 30% of adults suffer from some form of sleep deprivation. On average, people are sleeping fewer than six hours each night! For many, it’s because they wake up too early (and hate going back to bed), while others have difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep. For almost everyone with insomnia (that nagging feeling that you aren’t getting enough rest) the result is fatigue and low energy levels throughout your day. In fact, research shows that even mild insomnia can lead to an increased risk for high blood pressure and diabetes.