Although popular belief and common recommendations have traditionally indicated that eight hours of sleep provide optimal rest, science has begun to question this norm. Modern research emphasizes that the quality and duration of sleep are critical factors for overall health, and balance is key.
Science warns that both lack of sleep (insomnia) and excess sleep (hypersomnia) have detrimental effects. Sleep deprivation has been linked to psychiatric disorders and significant cognitive decline. Furthermore, the disruption of slow-wave deep sleep can affect memory and raise levels of the beta-amyloid protein, closely linked to Alzheimer's disease.
Maintaining a balance around seven hours of quality sleep is essential to preserve cognitive function and overall mental and physical health.
A key study published in the journal Nature Aging, which analyzed the sleep habits of nearly 500,000 adults, was conclusive. Contrary to established belief, the study revealed that the optimal amount of sleep to keep the brain in its best state is seven hours. Quality sleep is crucial for preventing problems such as diabetes, obesity, and cardiovascular diseases, as lack of rest compromises cardiovascular function and alters glucose metabolism.
