9 Facts About Sleeping That'll Make You Hit The Snooze Button With Purpose
Trust me, it's more important than you think.
Too many of us are guilty on running on empty. With hectic lives and busy schedules, enough sleep is often the first thing to go.
And as much as you may think you can power through, it's really important to look at what's happening in the long term.
1. Sleep Is As Important As Food And Water
We normally think of it as something we can skimp. But really, it's not. You know all of that attention you put into eating right and stay hydrated? You should be putting just as much into getting enough sleep.
2. And Sleep Deprivation Will Kill You Faster Than Food Deprivation
Jesus. I wouldn't think that staying up all night would be worse than not eating for a day. But research shows that, in the sort term, sleep deprivation is worse than food deprivation. And it's potentially deadlier.
3. Man Is The Only Mammal That Delays Sleep On Purpose
That's right, according to The Sleep Foundation , no other mammal does that. Why? Probably because they realize how bad for you it is.
4. Over A Third Of Us Drive While We're Drowsy
That's right, 36 percent of American drive while drowsy or straight up fall asleep while driving. Seriously. It's so, so dangerous. When you don't get enough sleep you can put others in danger.
5. Not Getting Enough Sleep Effs With Your Appetite
You know when you're overtired and you feel like you just can't get enough food. Like no matter what you eat, it's just not enough? That's because of leptin, a hormone that regulates your appetite. It falls when you're sleep deprived and messes everything up.
6. Some Adults Need 10 Hours A Night To Perform At Their Peak
Sure, most adults need between seven and nine hours of sleep. But while some can get by with as little as six, some need up to ten hours to perform at full capacity. So make sure you're getting what's right for your body.
7. People Can Sleep With Their Eyes Open— And Not Realize
That's right. According to the American Academy of Sleep Medicine, you can take a little cat nap with their eyes open and you may not even know that it's happening. If that freaks you out as much as it freaks me out, then you definitely want to be sure to be getting enough sleep.
8. Over 1/3 Of Americans Don't Get Enough Sleep
The Center for Disease Control and Prevention has said that over 1/3 of Americans aren't getting enough sleep. So it's time to think if you're one of them— and make a commitment to getting more rest.
9. And It Can Really Mess With Your Health
We all know that in the short term, being sleep deprived messes with you. You're groggy and slow, maybe even anxious. But studies have shown there are also long term effects of not getting enough sleep— including increased risk of chronic disease. Make sure you're taking care of yourself.
It's so easy to neglect— but you need to make sure you're getting your Zzzzs. You need them more than you think, your short term and your long term health will thank you.
Know any great tips to get enough sleep? SHARE your advice!
Related: Choosing the right mattress is one of the best ways to get better sleep. Check out our round-ups of the best organic and best cooling options.