Why You Shouldn't Skimp on Sleep
October 20, 2008

While there are questions about how much sleep is necessary for different age groups or individuals, one thing remains true: You need sleep. It's a basic necessity of life, as important to our health and well-being as air, food and water. When we sleep well, we wake up feeling refreshed, alert and ready to face daily challenges. When we don't, every part of our lives can suffer. If you're thinking about cutting back on your snooze time, a new article in U.S. News & World Report lists 10 reasons why you shouldn't skimp on sleep. According to the article, lack of sleep can lead to daytime drowsiness, which can cause auto accidents or an increased number of falls. The list also includes possible health consequences, such as becoming more prone to obesity and an increased risk of heart attacks for women. The National Sleep Foundation’s 2008 Sleep in America poll reports the average American spends 6 hours and 55 minutes in bed — with 6 hours and 40 minutes spent actually sleeping. Are you getting enough sleep?
- Read the U.S. News & World Report article.
- Check out the 2008 Sleep in America poll statistics.
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