In the 2 most recent Articles of the Week, we talked about the benefits of getting good sleep and several strategies for achieving good sleep. This week, we’ll find out what happens when you get
poor sleep.
1. Memory Issues – During sleep, your brain forms connections that help you process and remember new information. A lack of sleep negatively impacts both short and long term memory.
2. Mood Changes – Sleep deprivation can make you moody, emotional and quick-tempered. Chronic sleep deprivation can affect your mood and lead to anxiety or depression which can escalate over time.
3. Weakened Immunity – Too little sleep weakens your immune system’s defences against viruses like those that cause the common cold and flue. You’re more likely to get sick since your immune system isn’t as robust.
4. Risk for Diabetes – A lack of sleep affects your body’s release of insulin, the hormone that helps control blood sugar. People who don’t get enough sleep have higher blood sugar levels and an increased risk of type 2 diabetes.
5. Low Sex Drive – People who don’t get enough sleep often have a lower libido. In men, this decreased sex drive may be due to a drop in testosterone levels.
6. Trouble Thinking & Concentration – Your concentration, creativity and problem-solving skills aren’t up to par when you don’t get enough rest.
7. Accidents – Being drowsy during the day increases your risk for car accidents, work injuries and injuries from other causes.
8. High Blood Pressure – If you sleep less than 5 hours per night, your risk for high blood pressure increases.
9. Weight Gain – With sleep deprivation, the chemicals that signal to your brain that you’re full are off balance. As a results, you’re more likely to overindulge even when you’ve had enough to eat.
10. Risk of Heart Disease – Sleep deprivation can lead to increased blood pressure and higher levels of chemicals linked to inflammation, both of which play roles in heart disease.
11. Poor Balance – Lack of sleep can affect balance and coordination, making your more prone to falls and other physical accidents.
