The price of night owling: How sleeping late impacts your health and happiness

Nov 4, 2024

By: Ayush Mehrotra

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Weakened Immune System

Sleep is essential for immune function. Insufficient sleep makes the body more vulnerable to infections and illnesses.

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Hormonal Imbalance

Hormones that control hunger, stress, and growth, like cortisol and ghrelin, are regulated during sleep. Poor sleep can lead to weight gain, higher stress levels, and delayed growth in younger individuals.

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Increased Risk of Chronic Conditions

Long-term sleep deprivation is linked to heart disease, diabetes, high blood pressure, and stroke.

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Poor Skin Health

Inadequate sleep can result in dull skin, dark circles, and an increased risk of acne due to stress hormones.

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Reduced Physical Performance

Sleep affects coordination, strength, and endurance. Athletes, for instance, can suffer from poorer performance and delayed recovery.

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Decreased Cognitive Function

Sleep impacts concentration, memory, and decision-making. Lack of sleep makes it harder to focus and learn.

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Mood Changes

Poor sleep can lead to irritability, mood swings, and an increased risk of anxiety and depression.

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Impaired Judgment

Chronic sleep deprivation can affect judgment, making it easier to take risks or make poor decisions.

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Slower Reaction Time

This can impact driving and other activities requiring quick reflexes, increasing the likelihood of accidents.

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