CDC’s Sleep Recommendations: Different age groups require varying amounts of sleep, at least 7 hours for adults.
Health Risks of Sleep Deprivation:
Immunodeficiency: Lack of sleep can weaken the immune system, making one more susceptible to infections.
Weight Gain: Hormonal disruptions from sleep loss can increase hunger and appetite, potentially leading to obesity.
Cognitive Impairment: Sleep deprivation can affect attention, concentration, reasoning, and memory, making learning and decision-making difficult.
Mental Health: Poor sleep is linked to depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorder, with sleep issues exacerbating symptoms of depression.
Diabetes: Insufficient sleep can affect insulin release and blood sugar regulation, increasing diabetes risk.
Cardiovascular Disease: Sleep is vital for heart health, and lack thereof can lead to heart attacks, strokes, and high blood pressure.
Hormonal Imbalances: Sleep affects hormone production, and deprivation can lead to increased stress hormones and affect growth hormones and testosterone.
Fertility Issues: Sleep deprivation can disrupt hormones related to fertility, contributing to infertility and pregnancy loss.
Accidents: Drowsiness from lack of sleep can impair reaction time, leading to a higher risk of car crashes.
Skin Aging: Chronic poor sleep can accelerate skin aging, reduce skin barrier function.
Massage for Better Sleep: Massage can promote deep and restorative sleep, improving overall well-being.
