Sleep Debt Not Easily Repaid
Recent studies are beginning to show that it is harder than you think to catch up on lost sleep. Even that long weekend rest that makes you feel recovered from the week may not be enough.
Like many fathers of three, in my world, sleep is at a premium. Our kids are naturally night owls, which is possible in part due to homeschooling, and when you add the two-year-old into the mix, I consider about six hours a day during the week as a gift. A recent study somewhat confirms what my body tells me– the debt is not easily repaid by just one night of sleeping in.
Although a decent night’s sleep can temporarily hide the effects of not getting enough sleep, research showed that if that next day wanes on, there is increased risk of fatigue-related errors and sudden sleepiness. With each hour spent away after about 6 hours on that day after sleeping in, the study participants showed an increased likelihood of making errors or even being involved in accidents. The researchers said that there may be two processes in the brain associated with lack of sleep. One may deal with short term issues, but a second process may be affected as days or weeks of sleep-deprived days and nights take their toll.
Fortunately, some people have found that a natural sleep aid, like Sleep-Tite, may be able to make those hours we are able to sleep more restorative and effective.
You can read more about the study here.
No Comments Yet
You can be the first to comment!
Leave a comment