By Admin 
How Many Hours of Sleep Is Healthy: Are you sleeping more than necessary and you don’t even realize it? Generally, 7 to 9 hours of sleep is recommended for adults, but new research is telling a different story. Now experts have started believing that for most adults, 7 hours of continuous sleep can be considered best, not only for waking up refreshed in the morning, but also for maintaining physical and mental health in the long run. Let us tell you how long you should not sleep.
After all, why 7 hours of sleep is best?
In a large study published in Nature Aging, the sleep of about 5 lakh people aged 38 to 73 years was analyzed. In this study, it was found that people who slept regularly for 7 hours had better memory, decision making ability and thinking power. Besides, their mood also remained more stable and less mental problems were seen. Research also revealed that those who got too little or too much sleep had a higher risk of anxiety, depression and decline in mental ability.
Similarly, the Journal of Clinical Sleep Medicine also advises adults between 18 to 60 years of age to sleep at least 7 hours every day. Taking less sleep increases the risk of problems like heart disease, obesity, type-2 diabetes, weak immune system and depression.
Is 9 hours of sleep too much?
Sleeping too much after illness or extreme fatigue is not harmful, but if you need 9 or more hours of sleep every day, then it can be a sign of some internal problem. Some studies have found that people who sleep excessively for a long time may have increased risk of swelling in the body, slow thinking and depression.
It has also been observed that people who habitually sleep more than 9 hours were found to have a slightly higher risk of death in the long run. However, this does not mean that excess sleep is always harmful. But if you feel tired even after sleeping for 9 hours, then the quality of sleep or some hidden disease could be the reason.
What happens to people who sleep less?
For people who sleep only 5 to 6 hours every day, its effects appear gradually. Lack of sleep weakens memory, makes it difficult to concentrate, causes mood swings and weakens the immune system. Prolonged lack of sleep also increases the risk of metabolic diseases, heart problems and obesity. Many people try to get enough sleep by sleeping more on weekends, but research shows that irregular sleep can also be harmful. If sleep-wake times vary daily, the circadian rhythm, the body’s internal clock, gets disrupted. This can increase the risk of many health problems including liver and heart diseases. In some studies, the risk of stroke and heart attack in such people has been found to be up to 26 percent higher.
Regularity in sleep is most important
Experts say that as important as the duration of sleep is, its regularity is equally important. Sleeping and waking up at the same time every day keeps the body balanced, which improves mood, immunity and overall health. Although both 7 and 9 hours of sleep are considered optimal, current evidence suggests that a good seven hours of continuous, uninterrupted sleep is most beneficial for mental sharpness and longevity.
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Disclaimer: This information is based on research studies and expert opinion. Do not consider this as a substitute for medical advice. Before adopting any new activity or exercise, please consult your doctor or relevant specialist.
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