Obtaining enough sleep is a necessary requirement of health. The exact amount of sleep necessary will vary between individuals, but is likely to fall between 8 and 10 hours a night for most people. Children and those who are physically active or recovering from illness may need considerably more. Not obtaining enough sleep is a stress for the body, and if repeated over time can cause significant health problems. Studies show that sleep deprivation in the short term can lead to cognitive decline and general poor performance. In the long term, a lack of sleep may be a cause of many of the same diseases associated with stress. These can include cardiovascular disease and obesity. In general then, not obtaining adequate sleep for a single night will not cause any long term health consequences because the body can compensate with increased sleep another time. However, if the pattern is repeated, serious and long term health consequences can occur. Obtaining enough sleep should therefore be a priority if good health is to be obtained.
Eat Well, Stay Healthy, Protect Yourself
RdB
