7 Incredible Facts You Didn’t Know About Sleep

Everyone sleeps. While we do not know everything about this process – in fact, some aspects of sleeping are still a complete mystery – there are a number of things that have been discovered about this strange activity that every human participates in. Here are a few interesting facts about sleep you may not have known about.

1. There Is No Set Recommended Number of Hours of Sleep

While some experts say that anywhere from six to seven hours of sleep is recommended, the ideal amount of sleep really depends on the individual. One person may be able to function perfectly well on only five hours of sleep, while his neighbour might need to have at least nine to get through a full day of work.

2. If You’re Too Tired to Exercise, Choose Sleep

Exercise is important, but getting a full amount of sleep is just as vital to your health. If you are too tired and try to exercise despite your drowsiness, it could actually have the opposite effect of what you intended. When in doubt, opt for rest – but don’t take that as an invitation to be lazy! When you have the energy to exercise, get out of bed and get your gym gear on.

3. A Good Mattress Can Seriously Make a World of Difference

A good mattress can be the difference between tossing and turning all night and sleeping blissfully all the way through to morning. Simply find the type that is best suited to your body. Companies like Sleepy’s are experts in mattresses and can help you discover the quality slumber you have been missing out on.

4. Too Little Sleep Makes You Feel Hungrier

Studies show that those who have trouble sleeping have bigger appetites. This is due to hormones. Leptin, a hormone that suppresses and regulates your appetite, is affected by how much sleep you get. Sleep deprivation can make it harder for your body to recognise when it’s hungry and when it’s full.

5. Shift Work Is Dangerous to Sleep and Other Bodily Issues

Those who work shift jobs run the risk of dysfunctional sleeping patterns. Because shift workers never sleep on a proper schedule, they can run the risk of developing other body disorders during their lifetime as a result of irregular sleeping patterns or ongoing sleep deprivation.

6. Exercise Improves Sleep Patterns

Performing regular exercise can regulate your sleep patterns almost immediately. While it increases your energy levels throughout the day, it also allows your body to fatigue during the night so that you can relax and sleep can come more easily.

7. A Midnight Snack Is Not Always a Bad Thing

Studies have found that some food groups contain calming agents that can help you relax and eventually sleep better. While that doesn’t mean you should indulge in a three-course meal at 11pm, a little snack before bed might actually be okay – depending on the type of item you consume.

Have you uncovered a fascinating fact about sleep that isn’t listed here? Share it with other readers by posting in the comments below!