Many people feel constantly tired and wish they could sleep longer. A quiet weekend morning without an alarm can feel like the perfect chance to catch up on rest.
But researchers say there may be such a thing as too much sleep. While lack of sleep is widely discussed, scientists are now drawing attention to the potential risks of regularly sleeping far longer than recommended.
World Sleep Day on March 13 aims to highlight the importance of healthy sleep habits and encourage people to think more carefully about their nightly routines.
When rest becomes excessive
Sleep researchers Charlotte Gupta and Gabrielle Rigney explored the topic in an article published by The Conversation. They examined how sleep duration may influence long-term health.
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A review covering 79 studies found that people who sleep more than nine hours each night have a 34 percent higher risk of dying compared with those who typically sleep seven to eight hours.
Another large analysis from 2018 looked at sleep data gathered over periods ranging from one year to three decades.
It reported that individuals sleeping beyond nine hours had a 14 percent higher risk of death during the study periods.
Finding the right balance
Researchers say the relationship between long sleep and health is complex. Oversleeping has been linked to several conditions, including depression, chronic pain, weight gain and metabolic problems.
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Experts recommend focusing on consistent habits that support natural sleep rhythms. Helpful strategies include:
- Getting daylight and physical activity during the day
- Going to bed and waking up at the same time daily
- Avoiding screens before bedtime
- Keeping the bedroom dark, quiet and cool
Sources: Unilad and The Conversation
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