We are constantly reminded of the importance of getting at least 7 hours of sleep each night. However, factors like stress-induced insomnia or various external disturbances often prevent many from achieving this recommended amount. The sleep technology company Simba recently used artificial intelligence to uncover the physical consequences of sleep deprivation, and experts now caution that this lack of sleep may be taking a serious toll on our bodies.
Hormonal Fluctuations
“When you’re sleep-deprived, cortisol levels — the stress hormone — rise, exacerbating inflammatory skin conditions, worsening conditions like eczema and psoriasis, leading to irritation, redness, and itching,” explained Artis.
Various Skin Problems
Among those who reported insufficient sleep, 24% noted increased skin sensitivity. Other frequently reported skin issues included eczema (16%), psoriasis (7%), and a dull complexion (10%). “At night, the skin works overtime to regenerate and repair itself,” Ms. Artis explained. “During rest, blood flow increases, supporting its natural repair processes and promoting a healthy, radiant complexion,” she added.
Brittle Nails
Furthermore, 15% of individuals with inadequate sleep reported experiencing brittle nails, underscoring a potential link between chronic sleep deprivation and weakened nail health. This association may stem from disruptions in the body’s natural repair mechanisms, which are essential for maintaining nail strength.
Weight Gain
Without adequate rest, ghrelin levels spike, making people feel hungrier, while leptin levels decrease, reducing the feeling of fullness. “This hormonal imbalance triggers overeating, especially cravings for high-calorie sugary foods.”
According to Ms. Artis, sleep deprivation may also play a role in the different ways men and women gain weight. “Women are more likely to see increased fat in the hips and thighs due to hormonal changes, while men may notice more abdominal fat due to decreased testosterone levels,” she said.
Imbalance in the body’s internal temperature
Constipation
Another study investigated the potential relationship between sleep disturbances and various types of constipation in patients. The findings suggested that people with a history of insufficient sleep had a significantly higher risk of developing constipation, highlighting the importance of sleep quality in gastrointestinal health.
The amount of sleep a person needs varies based on multiple factors. “A healthy adult usually needs around 7 to 9 hours of sleep,” the NHS advises.
However, individual requirements differ depending on factors such as age, health, and personal circumstances. Some people naturally require more sleep than others. Teenagers, children, and babies need additional rest to support their growth, with newborns sleeping anywhere from 8 to 16 hours a day.
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