What will happen if you sleep 5 hours per day - scientists' answer

What happens to the body if you sleep only five hours a day: scientists' opinion

The modern rhythm of life often forces people to reduce their sleep duration, trying to accomplish more during the day. However, experts in medicine and sleep warn: chronic sleep deprivation, when a person sleeps only five hours a day, can have serious effects on health and quality of life.

Impact on cognitive functions

Sleep is directly related to brain function. It is necessary for information processing, memory formation, and concentration. Lack of sleep leads to decreased cognitive performance, impaired decision-making ability, and an increased likelihood of mistakes. Studies show that people who regularly sleep five hours or less demonstrate slower reaction times and reduced ability to solve complex tasks.

Consequences for physical health

Short sleep affects the cardiovascular system. Chronic sleep deprivation increases the risk of developing hypertension, strokes, and heart diseases. Lack of sleep also negatively affects the immune system: the body becomes more vulnerable to infections and viruses.

Metabolism also suffers. Sleep regulates hormones responsible for hunger and satiety. Lack of sleep increases levels of the hormone ghrelin, which stimulates appetite, and decreases levels of leptin, which is responsible for feeling full. This can contribute to weight gain and the development of type 2 diabetes.

Psychological state and emotional stability

Lack of sleep is closely linked to a person's emotional state. People who sleep less than normal more often experience irritability, anxiety, and depressive symptoms. Sleep is important for mental recovery: it is during sleep that the brain processes emotions and stressful events, allowing for psychological balance to be maintained.

Long-term risks

Research shows that chronic sleep deprivation accelerates the aging process and may reduce life expectancy. At the cellular level, lack of sleep affects tissue regeneration, cardiovascular function, and the level of inflammatory processes in the body.

Scientists' recommendations

Medical professionals recommend adults sleep on average from seven to nine hours per day. For those who are forced to frequently undersleep, it's important to compensate with periods of rest, maintain a sleep-wake schedule, avoid excessive consumption of caffeine and alcohol before bed. Short daytime "power naps" are also beneficial, helping to restore concentration and reduce fatigue.

Five hours of sleep per day may seem normal for a busy person, but in reality, it's a regimen that negatively affects health, cognitive functions, and emotional state. Scientists strongly recommend valuing sleep as a vital resource for the body and not sacrificing it for short-term productivity.