What Happens To Your Body When You Don't Sleep Enough?

By Bharati Kumari
27 Sep 2024, 23:00 IST

Sleep is crucial for maintaining overall health and well-being. When you don’t get enough rest, it impacts your body in more ways than you realise. Tap to check!

IMPAIRED BRAIN FUNCTION

When you don’t sleep enough, your brain struggles with memory retention and concentration. You may find it hard to focus and recall details easily.

MOOD FLUCTUATIONS

Insufficient rest can lead to feelings of irritability, frustration and emotional instability. Regularly reducing your sleep time may heighten the likelihood of experiencing anxiety and episodes of sadness.

COMPROMISED IMMUNE SYSTEM

Insufficient sleep can affect your system making it more challenging for your body to fend off common ailments such, as colds and flu.

RISK OF HEART DISEASE

Regularly getting insufficient sleep raises the risk of heart disease as sufficient rest is essential for managing blood pressure and ensuring the hearts health.

WEIGHT GAIN

When you don't get enough sleep it messes with the levels of hunger hormones like ghrelin and leptin causing you to crave more unhealthy food and putting a brake on your metabolism. If this continues it can result in gaining weight.

TYPE 2 DIABETES

Regularly getting less than six hours of sleep per night can impact how your body manages glucose increasing the risk of developing Type 2 diabetes.

PREMATURE SKIN AGEING

Insufficient sleep can accelerate the aging of your skin. While you snooze your skin gets a chance to rejuvenate. When you neglect sleep it can show up on your skin as fine lines, puffy eyes and a dull appearance.

STUDY FINDINGS

A study by the National Institutes of Health (NIH) shows that consistent sleep deprivation can lead to long-term health risks, including cardiovascular disease and metabolic disorders, highlighting the importance of adequate rest.

Conclusion

Consistent sleep deprivation doesn’t just make you tired—it affects your brain, body, and long-term health. Prioritising sleep is essential for your well-being. Always consult a healthcare professional for personalised advice.