The debate over how much sleep we really need has been ongoing for ages, but recent research is setting the record straight: Four hours of sleep simply isn’t enough, no matter how much some claim they can function on it.
A research team from the University of Pennsylvania is emphasizing the importance of sleep, noting that you need to spend about eight and a half hours in bed to get a full eight hours of shut-eye. Why? Because we’re only actually asleep about 90% of the time, we’re lying down.
While some politicians and CEOs like to brag that they get by on just four hours of sleep, science doesn’t back them up. In fact, one U.S. politician was known for poor judgment and mood swings due to sleep deprivation—proof that skipping out on sleep can have serious consequences.
There’s also the case of a U.S. CEO who neglected sleep for work, only to compromise their health. This CEO eventually committed to getting eight hours of sleep. Four hours of sleep is insufficient for anyone leading a company or nation, as it puts both themselves and those they’re responsible for at risk.
Many people get by on six hours of sleep each night, but this leads to built-up fatigue. It’s common for them to crash on the couch to catch up on sleep over the weekend. Finding ways to prioritize adequate sleep, such as through remote work or flexible schedules, is crucial.
While some individuals, like Microsoft’s Bill Gates, say seven hours of sleep is enough for them, the general recommendation for optimal health is still eight hours. Teenagers, in particular, need even more—about nine hours—but early school start times often lead to sleep deprivation.
Research from Harvard University and the Open University found that delaying school start times to 10 a.m. improved children’s health and academic performance.
Skipping out on sleep can cause a whole host of health issues. When your brain doesn’t get enough rest, it can’t function properly, leaving you unfocused and unaware of your surroundings—which can be dangerous, even life-threatening. So getting enough sleep is about way more than just feeling refreshed—it’s essential for your health and safety.
The takeaway from this research is clear: No matter how busy life gets, you have to prioritize sleep. Cutting back on rest isn’t worth the long-term damage it can cause to your health. Fatigue isn’t the only downside—sleep deprivation can lead to more serious health problems down the road.
Getting enough sleep is vital for staying healthy and feeling your best. Aim for around eight and a half hours in bed to ensure you’re getting a full night of rest, and try to align your sleep schedule with your natural body clock. For teenagers, especially, creating an environment that allows for proper sleep is key.
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