Think of sleep as a bank account.
What is sleep debt and how does it work?
Everybody needs to get enough quality sleep to feel energized and be healthy.
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Ideally, you would get the ideal amount of sleep consistently to keep your brain and body functioning optimally.
If you dont, your will-being could end up paying for it.
What are the effects of sleep debt?
Plus, when youre asleep, your whole body restsyour kidneys even make less urine.
So when youre not getting enough sleep, youre cutting yourself short on these restorative processes.
Its more than just irritability and tiredness, explains Rinderknecht.
Chronic sleep deprivation can increase your risk for serious, life-threatening medical problems.
Is it possible to catch up on the sleep youve missed?
Youll need to pay moreand be strategicto make up for all those lost hours.
For one hour of sleep deprivation, you need a full night of proper sleep for recovery.
How can people practice better sleep habits?
Its definitely possiblealbeit a little difficultto counter the effects of sleep deprivation.
To improve your habits so you dont go into sleep debt, Rinderknecht recommends basic sleep hygiene practices.
The first thing to focus on is attempting to keep a regular sleep schedule.
Another important factor in sleep hygiene: keeping technology out of the bedroom.
What you eat and drink can also play a role in how well you sleep.
Rinderknecht suggests avoiding sugary foods and drinks, along with caffeine, at night time.
Its also best to avoid using alcohol as a sleep aid.
We want people to make sleep a priority, says Pelayo.
you’re able to get by with less sleep, but that doesnt mean youre at your best.
