We need sleep, and it is very important for our health to sleep deeply and well.
But what if we sleep too much? Is there such a thing as too much sleep? Yes, there is, and it has many harmful consequences. Although sleeping too much does not get as much publicity as the lack of sleep, it also affects health in a negative way.
1. Diabetes
A study involving 9,000 people has shown a close correlation between sleep and diabetes. There is a 50% chance of developing diabetes in those persons who sleep more than 9 hours a day.
2. Obesity
The result of a 6-year study shows that those who regularly sleep more than they need are more likely to become overweight. This even applies to those who eat healthy and move regularly. If you want to maintain a healthy weight, make sure to get up in time!
3. Headache
Those who sleep too much are more likely to suffer from headaches. Too much sleep has a negative effect on neurotransmitters, including serotonin. If you sleep too much in the daytime and little at night, you are at risk of headaches in the morning.
4. Back pain
If you spend too much time in bed, back pain will only be worse. Instead, move and be active so you can get rid of the pain as soon as possible.
5. Heart disease
72,000 women have been diagnosed, and it was noticed that those who slept 9-11 hours a day had 38% more chance of developing cardiovascular disease. Though researchers could not find the reason for this, it is certain that the heart does not need more than 8 hours of sleep per day.
6. Depression
An underlying cause of depression may be insomnia. However, too much sleep increases the likelihood of depression by 15%. For those who already suffer from this disease, too much sleep is counterproductive, as it only worsens the condition and hinders the recovery process.
7. Stroke
An 11-year study followed people who slept more than 8 hours a day. They found that they had a 46% higher chance of stroke than those who spent a healthy amount of time sleeping. Too much sleep may also be a warning sign of stroke.
8. Glucose intolerance
Glucose tolerance shows how well our body can process sugars. If you are glucose intolerant, you are at risk of developing type-2 diabetes. A study found that those who slept more than necessary had a greater chance of developing this illness than those who slept too little.
9. Death
It sounds terrible, but it is true that the chance of dying early increases with too much sleep. Researchers say the cause can be the same as depression. A healthy amount of sleep – 8 hours a day – is therefore essential for a healthy life.