Sleep is often an overlooked factor when it comes to being healthy. In a Harvard study conducted in 2008 experts concluded that “getting enough high-quality sleep may be as important to health and well-being as nutrition and exercise.” We all know the common signs of a bad night’s sleep which include being tired, grumpy, irritable and lacking focus. However, the effect that a poor night’s sleep has on our body and health go far beyond being in a bad mood and not being able to focus.

10 Effects Lack of Sleep can have on Your Body 

1. Obesity
2. Diabetes
3. Cardiovascular disease and hypertension (e.g. heart attack)
4. Depression and anxiety
5. Lower sex drive
6. Weakens immune system
7. Lowers life expectancy
8. Ages your skin
9. Makes it difficult to conceive
10. Slows down brain function

How much sleep should you get? 

According to the NHS the average individual requires 8 hours of good quality sleep every night. There is also no way of cheating getting the sleep you need. while coffee and other caffeinated drinks may give you the energy boost that you need to get you through the day they can’t make up for the vital functions our bodies undergo during sleep and may disrupt our sleep pattern in the long run.  Make sure you guys aren’t overlooking the important functions of sleep and are getting enough good quality sleep.

Just some food for thought

Jay xx