The weeks can be long and hard for anyone. Having to work, cook, clean, and make it to bed on time? Sometimes it's just not possible!
But there is a disturbing trend growing where people are actively planning to sleep less from Monday to Friday, expecting to recover their 'sleep debt' over the weekend.
Sleep debt is the buildup of mental and physical fatigue due to repeatedly failing to get enough sleep. Sleep deprivation is a serious condition, and is known to cause many psychological problems.
Now, there's even more evidence that not getting enough rest will cause damage to your body, as well as your mind.
Researchers found that women over 60 who try to make up for constant sleep debt are at a 5% higher risk for heart disease, as compared to those who get a fitful nights rest.
Another study found that women 45 years of age or older who were regularly getting less than six hours of sleep doubled their risk of heart attack.
So what's the science behind all of this?
We always hear about why sleep is important for good heart health, but why is that?
When you go to sleep your heart rate naturally slows down, from 60 beats per minute down to about 45. With a slower heart rate comes an overall lower blood pressure, as the blood is being pumped with much less force.
Every time you get a bad nights sleep, you do damage to your heart. While it's not much at first, it can eventually build into a serious condition.
So what should you do if you have been playing weekend catch-up with your sleep cycle?
The only answer is the simplest. Demand 7 - 9 hours of sleep throughout the week, and if you can't get it all at once, just know that naps are fine too!
You'll be healthier, look better, and feel ready to take on your day. So go get some shut-eye!
