It has been revealed what sleep duration accelerates aging

Scientists have found that nighttime sleep shorter than 6.4 and longer than 7.8 hours can accelerate age-related changes and increase the risk of developing chronic diseases. The results of the study were presented by Junhao Wen, an assistant professor at Columbia University. The expert was quoted by the Daily Mail.

The researchers analyzed data from nearly half a million people, comparing their sleep patterns with the condition of various organs and body systems. It was found that the most beneficial sleep duration was between 6.4 and 7.8 hours per day. It was precisely these individuals who showed slower signs of biological aging and better overall health.

Participants who slept less or significantly longer than this range more frequently experienced accelerated aging of the body. According to the scientists, lack of sleep is associated with an increased risk of depression, anxiety disorders, type 2 diabetes, hypertension, and cardiovascular diseases. In addition, sleep pattern disruptions were often accompanied by lung and digestive system diseases.

As Junhao Wen noted, sleep plays a key role in maintaining the body's functioning. During rest, metabolism, the immune system, and many internal processes that affect health and lifespan are restored.

At the same time, the researchers emphasize that poor sleep does not always become a direct cause of diseases. In many cases, it may be an early signal that hidden disorders have already developed in the body.