Can getting eight hours of sleep every day still harm your health? Read why it's important to have a fixed bedtime.

News Topical, Digital Desk : We often hear that an adult needs 7-8 hours of sleep daily. But is simply getting enough hours enough? The answer is no. The quality of sleep and its regularity are just as important as its duration.

So, if you go to bed and wake up at different times every day, even if you get eight hours of sleep, this habit can have a profound negative impact on your health (Negative Effects of Inconsistent Sleep). Let's learn why setting a fixed bedtime is just as important.

Why is it important to have a fixed sleeping time?

Our bodies have a natural clock called the circadian rhythm. This clock operates on a 24-hour cycle and coordinates with the sunrise and sunset. This clock controls our sleep and wake cycles, body temperature, hormones, and digestion. When you sleep at a consistent time every day, this clock remains stable and all body systems function smoothly.

Irregular timings affect health

When your sleep time is not fixed, this natural clock gets disrupted, which can have serious consequences.

• Poor sleep quality – Even if you get eight hours of sleep, sleeping during the day or at irregular times disrupts deep sleep and REM sleep cycles. These are the stages where the body repairs itself, stores memories, and enjoys mental relaxation. A lack of sleep can mean you don't feel refreshed even after a full night's sleep.
• Hormonal imbalance – When the circadian rhythm is disrupted, the hormone melatonin is not produced properly. Cortisol and insulin levels are also negatively affected. This increases stress and can slow down metabolism.
• Risk of Obesity and Diabetes - Irregular sleep habits disrupt the balance of the appetite-regulating hormones ghrelin and leptin. This leads to frequent hunger pangs, especially cravings for sweet and high-calorie foods. In the long run, this habit   can increase the risk of weight gain and type 2 diabetes .
• Risks to heart health – Persistent disturbances in circadian rhythm can affect blood pressure and heart rate, increasing the risk of heart disease .
• Mental health and decreased focus – Irregular sleep patterns can cause mood swings, irritability, depression, and anxiety. Furthermore, focus, memory, and decision-making can be affected.
• Weakened Immunity - Sleep plays a vital role in strengthening our immune system. Irregular sleep weakens the body's ability to fight disease, making you more susceptible to frequent infections.

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