Frequent sleep-ins might be an initial sign of several serious illnesses such as Alzheimer’s, suggests a recent research.
Experts have determined that people who get about seven hours of sleep are less prone to experiencing significant health problems.
Individuals who get more than seven hours of sleep are at an increased risk of experiencing cognitive decline along with heart disease and issues.
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However, individuals getting less than seven hours of sleep were more prone to experiencing low mood, feeling fatigued, along with having poorer muscle and bone health.
Brain scans showed that the brains of individuals who sleep for shorter durations seem smaller in regions linked to emotions. Experts think this shrinkage might be related to the depressed moods observed in such cases.
Specialists termed the discoveries as a ‘game changer’ in comprehending the link between sleep and well-being.
The research conducted at the University of Warwick examined sleep patterns involving almost half a million individuals aged between 38 and 73 years old.
The researchers indicate that for individuals who sleep excessively, this is probably a sign of an underlying condition rather than the reason behind it.
Earlier studies have indicated that getting more than nine hours of sleep might signal the presence of Alzheimer’s, a neurodegenerative disorder. However, scientists from Warwick suggest that consistently logging over seven hours of shut-eye may also point towards this serious illness.
Nevertheless, people who get less than seven hours of sleep think that the insufficient sleep is causing their health problems.
Experts express their optimism that these discoveries could enable early detection of illnesses and swiftly offer treatment strategies for individuals struggling with sleep issues.
The following phase of the study will involve monitoring shifts in sleep behaviors as time progresses.
‘This represents a significant change in our understanding of the connection between sleep and overall health,’ states Professor Jianfeng Feng, a biologist and co-author of the study from Warwick University.
‘Our main objective is to create a complete picture of sleep health throughout a person’s entire life span, offering practical advice for people at each phase.’
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