If you’re not getting enough sleep, you’re probably familiar with some of the more obvious side effects, such as having trouble concentrating or staying awake during the day. But there are other benefits of getting a full night’s sleep that you might not have considered, like increased health and even higher athletic performance. Sleep well tonight and reap the rewards tomorrow!
Boosted Learning
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Studies show that students who get enough sleep are better learners, retain information better, and are more likely to stay motivated. If you want to be your best in class (and after school), it’s essential to make sure you’re getting enough rest. Here are some other benefits that come with being well-rested
Memory Improvement
While we sleep, our brains consolidate memories. Although it’s not clear exactly how long you need to sleep for memory consolidation to occur, studies have shown that sleep-deprived students are significantly worse at memorizing vocabulary and facts than well-rested peers. If you’re concerned about memory loss due to aging or Alzheimer’s, getting enough shuteye can be crucial.
Improved Fitness
Physical activity is an important part of staying healthy. On top of feeling good, getting enough sleep can have numerous health benefits, such as helping with weight management and preventing chronic diseases like diabetes and heart disease. Studies even show that those who sleep less than six hours each night are at risk for cancer, mental disorders, obesity, and more! If you’re not getting a full night’s rest, it’s time to start thinking about your health.
Lower Stress Levels
If you’re not getting enough sleep, your cortisol levels will be higher than normal, so you may wake up feeling stressed or anxious. These increased stress levels may also cause problems with your blood sugar levels and immune system function. Additionally, many people who suffer from sleep deprivation have mood disorders such as depression or anxiety disorder. According to research conducted by Boston Medical Center, subjects who did not get enough sleep were significantly more likely to be depressed than those who slept an average amount of seven hours per night.
Weight Loss Efforts Benefit from Sleep
Inadequate sleep has been linked to weight gain and obesity, but getting more shut-eye may help weight loss efforts. A recent study from King’s College London found that people who slept for five hours or less at night showed more unhealthy food cravings and higher levels of insulin in their blood. In contrast, those who got around seven hours had smaller appetites and metabolisms that processed sugar better.
Improved Skin Health
According to WebMD, lack of sleep may speed up aging and make your skin look dull. When you don’t get enough shut-eye, your body produces more cortisol—the stress hormone that makes you look tired all day long. With less sleep, your cells don’t receive as much oxygen. This can accelerate aging and deplete collagen levels in the skin—ultimately leaving it looking dry and wrinkled. Try to go to bed at least eight hours before you have to wake up every morning.
Reduced Risk of Disease
A lack of sleep isn’t just bad for your mood; it can lead to serious health conditions. A study from Brigham and Women’s Hospital, which followed more than 40,000 women over 16 years, found that those who slept five hours or less per night were at a 64 percent higher risk for cardiovascular disease and 34 percent higher risk for cancer. Other studies have shown similar effects on men.
Fewer Snoring Problems
Snoring is very common in people who do not get enough sleep. If you are snoring, it may be time to start making changes to ensure that you are getting enough sleep. One way to reduce snoring is through sleeping on your side or back instead of on your stomach. Those who snore while lying on their back can benefit from sleeping with a wedge under their upper body or by elevating their head while they sleep.
