Am I Getting Enough Sleep? This Is How Much You Need

Are you asking the question, “Am I getting enough sleep?”

Sleep is the most basic and important factor in our health. It plays a huge role in your physical and mental health. It also enables your body to prevent excess weight gain and increased illness duration.

However, one in three adults lacks sleep. If you’re not getting enough of it, it can spell doom for overall well-being. Read on to learn how much sleep you need, when you need it, and how you can get a better night’s sleep below.

Am I Getting Enough Sleep?

Am I getting enough sleep? If not, how much sleep do I need? Sleep requirements vary from person to person.

Most people can operate with at least 7 hours of sleep. Consider these general guidelines for the different age groups:

  • Newborns: 14 to 17 hours
  • 12 months: 10 hours plus 4 hours for naps
  • 2 years: 11 to 12 hours plus 1 to 2 hours for naps
  • 3-5 years: 10 to 13 hours
  • 6-13 years: 9 to 11 hours
  • 14-17 years: 8 to 10 hours
  • Adults: 7 to 9 hours
  • Older adults: 7 to 8 hours

Although the amount of time you sleep is essential, other factors of your sleep also affect your health and well-being. You may experience poor quality sleep if you experience sleeping disorders. These include waking up repeatedly, snoring, gasping for air, and many more.

Benefits of Getting Enough Sleep

Sleeping is a way your body and mind can rest and improve your body’s function. When you lack sleep, you’ll have a bigger appetite and tend to eat foods with more calories. In turn, you get a higher risk of being obese.

Getting enough sleep will reduce your levels of leptin, the hormone stimulating your appetite. Sleeping well can improve your level of focus, which increases your productivity. It can also maximize your athletic performance, like your accuracy and reaction time.

Having at least 8 hours of sleep will improve your immune system. This makes it harder to get colds and fevers. Another benefit of sleeping includes enhancing your mood. Studies say chronic lack of sleep can increase the chance of getting mood disorders, especially depression.

Tips for a Better Night’s Sleep

Now that you know how much sleep to get every day, it’s time to start planning how to get a better night’s sleep. Start by sticking with a sleeping schedule for when you should sleep. Go to sleep and wake up at a set time every day.

Make yourself comfortable in your sleeping space. Check your mattress and pillows if they can support and make you feel comfortable throughout the night. Lessen potential disruption, such as light and sound.

Make use of aromas or sleeping gummies. Get them here if you have trouble looking for them.

You can also stop using your electronic devices like phones and laptops for half an hour before going to bed. Avoid a big meal and lots of fluid when it’s close to your bedtime is also a good way to ensure you get some sleep.

Getting Enough Sleep

Am I getting enough sleep? Know the answer with the help of our guide above. It’s important to keep on top of your sleep schedule, so keep yourself informed about your circadian rhythm today!

Do you want to learn more about sleep and sleep deprivation? Check out more of our blogs to learn all you can about sleep today!

katy petter

Passionate health content writer dedicated to simplifying complex medical topics and promoting wellness. With expertise in nutrition, fitness, and medical breakthroughs, I create informative and engaging content to empower readers in their journey to better health. Let's inspire a healthier world together.

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