Sleep is a fundamental aspect of human life and plays a crucial role in maintaining physical, mental, and emotional health. Unfortunately, sleep issues affect most people at some stage of their life.
Here are twelve interesting facts that answer some common questions about sleep.
1. Sleep cycles
Sleep is divided into two main stages: rapid eye movement (REM) and non-rapid eye movement (NREM). The first three hours of sleep have the deepest stages of sleep (NREM). Later at night, we have more of the sleep stage with vivid dreams (Rapid Eye Movement Sleep, REM sleep).
2. Sleep needs
The amount of sleep required varies with age. Newborns need about 14-17 hours of sleep, while adults typically need 7-9 hours per night. However, individual differences may mean some people require more or less.
3. Sleep and brain function
During sleep, the brain consolidates memories, processes emotions, and clears waste products through the glymphatic system, which helps remove toxins, including beta-amyloid associated with Alzheimer’s disease.
4. Sleep deprivation
Chronic sleep deprivation can have severe consequences, such as impaired cognitive function, decreased immune function, increased risk of obesity and cardiovascular diseases, and heightened emotional reactivity.
5. Circadian rhythm
Sleep is regulated by the circadian rhythm, an internal biological clock that follows a 24-hour cycle, influencing the timing of sleep and wakefulness. Light exposure primarily affects it and helps synchronize our sleep-wake cycle with the day-night cycle.
6. Sleep disorders
There are various sleep disorders, including insomnia (difficulty falling or staying asleep), sleep apnea (breathing interruptions during sleep), narcolepsy (excessive daytime sleepiness), and restless legs syndrome (uncomfortable sensations in the legs during rest).
7. Genetics & Sleep
We now believe that many aspects of sleep are genetically controlled. Recent breakthroughs may have identified the gene that makes some people cope more easily with a lack of sleep.
8. Dreaming
Dreams primarily occur during REM sleep. The purpose of dreams is still a subject of debate among researchers, but they are believed to serve various psychological functions, such as processing emotions and consolidating memories.
9. Sleep and performance
Getting adequate sleep is crucial for optimal performance, whether in cognitive tasks, physical activities, or creative endeavours. Athletes, in particular, benefit from sufficient sleep for enhanced performance and recovery.
10. Sleep and ageing
As people age, their sleep patterns may change. Older adults may experience lighter and more fragmented sleep, leading to frequent awakenings during the night.
11. Sleep hygiene
Good sleep hygiene refers to adopting habits and practices that promote healthy sleep. These include maintaining a consistent sleep schedule, creating a conducive sleep environment, limiting caffeine and electronic device usage before bedtime, and engaging in relaxation techniques.
12. Microsleep
Extreme sleep deprivation or monotonous activities can trigger short episodes of involuntary sleep called microsleep. These brief lapses in wakefulness can last for a few seconds and often go unnoticed by the individual experiencing them.
Remember that sleep is essential to well-being, and maintaining healthy sleep habits is vital for overall health and quality of life.
If you’re experiencing sleep difficulties, complete Harley’s free online sleep assessment, and one of our doctors can guide you in improving your sleep quality and overall health.
