07/08/2025
Sleep is so much more than just a chance to get some rest! Sleep is as important, if not more important, than diet and exercise. While you sleep, crucial processes are happening that ensure regulation and overall health. For instance, while you’re sleeping, your brain is removing toxins that are linked to diseases like dementia and Alzheimer’s. Even further, hormones are released throughout the body, helping muscle and joint tissues to repair.
In terms of amount, it does change as you age. School-age children generally need at least 9 hours a night, while teens need 8-10 hours of sleep per night. Adults generally need 7-9 hours of sleep per night.
Quality matters too! During the first couple hours that you sleep, you enter “restorative sleep”. This tends to be a bit more important than the latter half of the night of sleep. If you’re getting up frequently at night, to deal with noise or to go to the bathroom, this is definitely something to trouble-shoot and address!
It’s important to note that you should talk to your doctor or primary care provider if you feel very tired during the day or have trouble staying awake during the day. As well, if you consistently don’t get the recommended amount of sleep, it’s important to talk to a doctor or primary care provider. Sleep can be complicated, but it’s so important for our overall wellbeing and longevity! Prioritize sleep, you won’t regret it.
