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What Sleep Duration Do People Need?

For the best possible physical and mental performance, a good night's sleep is necessary.

By Januka RathnayakaPublished 2 years ago 5 min read
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What Sleep Duration Do People Need?
Photo by bruce mars on Unsplash

Age affects how much sleep is need for good living. People with chronic conditions may experience major health consequences from sleep deprivation.

Why is sleep so crucial?

Almost all physiological systems, including the circulatory, pulmonary, digestive, and immunological systems, require enough sleep to operate normally. The maintenance of many brain functions, such as cognition, focus, memory and learning, and emotions, is of utmost importance.

The development and improper management of a number of chronic diseases, including as diabetes, obesity, cardiovascular disease, and depression, are both influenced by long-term sleep deprivation.

Even a slight absence of sleep can cause poor energy, attention and concentration problems, depression, and sadness. Collectively, these elements may have an impact on routine everyday tasks. Serious mental and physical deterioration can result from prolonged sleep deprivation.

The body enters a resting condition when sleeping. The brain actively attempts to keep key physiological processes in a state of equilibrium. It is crucial to get enough restorative sleep in order to retain good daily performance and social interaction skills.

How much rest is necessary?

The quantity of sleep required each night varies depending on a person's age, degree of activity, and general health.

The National Sleep Foundation recommends that a healthy adult sleeps 7 to 9 hours per night. Infants, young children, and newborns require between nine and fourteen hours of sleep per night, not counting naps. They need more sleep for development and growth.

It is advised that adults, young adults, and adolescents have between 7 and 10 hours of sleep per night. It is also advised that those 65 years of age and above obtain 7 to 8 hours of sleep per night.

The recommended quantity of sleep at night for health is outlined in the National Sleep Foundation's standards. These recommendations have been established in light of several peer-reviewed research that have examined the relationship between sleep duration and important health outcomes. The quantity of sleep that each individual gets may differ, though.

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People who have long-term health issues or who use a lot of energy each day might need to sleep longer than is advised. Similar to this, those working in high-alert services may need more sleep than usual.

Alterations in sleep patterns and poor sleep quality can occur in people with sleep disorders, as well as those who are addicted to coffee or other stimulants that increase alertness. These individuals' ideal sleep durations could be different from the advised durations.

What are the symptoms of sleep apnea?

Not receiving the necessary amount of sleep at night might cause sleep deprivation. Extreme daytime drowsiness and exhaustion are the most prevalent signs of sleep loss.

Numerous symptoms of sleep deprivation can manifest themselves during waking hours, including lack of focus and concentration, diminished thinking and reasoning skills, impaired memory, inability to make sound decisions, lack of energy, and mood swings (anxiety, irritation, and emotional distress).

The amount of sleep loss determines how severe and frequent these symptoms are. The genetic composition of certain people makes them more likely to experience the symptoms. Contrarily, some stimulants that increase alertness, like coffee, can mask the effects of sleep deprivation.

How to get more restful sleep of higher quality

Excellent sleep hygiene, often known as developing and maintaining good sleeping habits, is crucial for getting a better night's sleep.

By rigidly adhering to the same sleep pattern every day, especially on weekends, sleep hygiene can be improved. A set time should be established for sleeping and waking up. A consistent sleep routine helps prevent changes in nighttime sleep.

Setting limits in one's business and social life will enable strict adherence to the sleep regimen. Long work hours or intensive socialising may have a detrimental effect on good sleep habits.

To maintain the mind in the appropriate frame of mind before falling asleep, establish a consistent bedtime ritual. A few calm activities like reading a book, putting on pajamas, and brushing your teeth should be included in a nighttime ritual.

The bedroom should be a peaceful, cozy, dimly lit, or completely dark space that is perfect for rest. Always keep the bedroom at a comfortable temperature. The mattress, pillow, and bed all need to be snug and comfy.

It's crucial to switch off electronic gadgets, such as TVs, computers, and mobile phones, at least 30 minutes before going to bed in order to maintain a regular sleep pattern. These gadgets excite the brain, and the light they generate throws off the circadian cycle.

Pre-bedtime use of coffee, alcohol, and high-calorie meals should be avoided. A large lunch may make you feel restless at night. The sleep cycle and general quality of sleep can be greatly impacted by alcohol. Similar to other stimulants, coffee causes the body to remain attentive for an extended amount of time.

Daytime naps that last for a long period may keep you from sleeping at night. As a result, naps should only last for a total of 30 minutes. Avoid taking naps in the late afternoon if you want to sleep well at night.

Being physically active throughout the day can also make it simpler and faster to go to sleep at night. Similar to this, regular sun exposure aids in maintaining the circadian rhythm, which is essential for restful nighttime sleep.

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About the Creator

Januka Rathnayaka

Exercising regularly, every day if possible, is the single most important thing you can do for your health.

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