How Sleep Affects Your Health Infographic

How Sleep Affects Your Health Infographic

 

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1 in 3 adults don’t get enough sleep.

How much sleep do you need?

Most adults need 7 to 9 hours of sleep each night. Kids and teens need even more. Yet the average high school student gets only 6.5 hours per school night, and about 20% get 5 hours or less! 

Benefits of good sleep

  • Healing and repair of cells, tissues and blood vessels
  • Better brain function including alertness, decision-making, focus, learning, memory, reasoning and problem-solving
  • More creativity and productivity
  • Improved mood and energy
  • Healthy growth and development for kids and teens
  • Better ability to build muscle
  • Quicker reflexes
  • Less risk of chronic disease
  • Stronger immune system

Your Health

Poor sleep may put you at higher risk for:

  • Alzheimer’s disease
  • Cardiovascular disease
  • Cognitive decline and dementia
  • Depression
  • Diabetes
  • High blood pressure
  • High blood sugar
  • High cholesterol
  • Infections
  • Obesity

Poor sleep can cause:

  • Accidents
  • Breathing problems
  • Hormone imbalance
  • Memory and cognitive issues
  • Increased appetite and unhealthy eating
  • Inflammation
  • Stress
  • Weight gain

Remember: 7 to 9 will help you feel fine, so get your ZZZs!

Learn more at heart.org/sleep.