The CDC calls it a public health epidemic. New research suggests that insufficient sleep is more problematic than most realize. Lack of sleep can cause irreversible health and brain damages. We are aware of the importance of sleep for mood and cognitive functioning. However, serious health problems are being linked to sleep deprivation. Experts say it’s also not something you can make up once it’s lost and people need to get over the idea that if they are sleeping they are being lazy or wasting time. Most of us are not getting enough and do not make it a priority. But sleep should be one of the 3 pillars of health along with nutrition and exercise.
Recommended amounts from the National Sleep Foundation
Newborns (up to 2 months), 12-18 hours
Infants (3-11 months), 14-15 hours
Toddlers (1-3 years), 12-14 hours
Preschoolers (3-5 years), 11-13 hours
School-age children (5-10 years), 10-11 hours
Teens (11-17 years) 8.5-9.5 hours
Adults (18 and older), 7-9 hours
