We’ve all experienced the grogginess and brain fog that follow a restless night. But according to Dr Jeremy London, an American cardiothoracic surgeon with over 25 years of experience, the risks of sleep deprivation go far beyond just feeling tired or moody. Sleep is a vital foundation for our overall health, and ignoring it can have serious long-term consequences.
In a recent Instagram video, Dr London explained that getting too little or too much sleep can increase health risks. Most adults thrive on about 6 to 8 hours of sleep per night. Sleeping less or even more than that can disrupt your internal clock and affect your body in ways you may not realise.
How Sleep Deprivation Impacts Your Body
One of the key points Dr London highlighted is the importance of circadian rhythms – our natural internal clocks. Humans are designed to be active during the day and rest at night. When this rhythm is disrupted, our hormones, appetite and stress levels can all go haywire.
Appetite changes after a night without sleep, leading to stronger cravings.
Mood swings and irritability are common after repeated poor sleep.
Stress hormones can rise, putting extra strain on the heart and metabolism.
When your sleep pattern is consistently off, your body’s chemistry begins to malfunction. Over time, this can affect multiple systems, not just your energy levels.
Long-Term Consequences Of Poor Sleep
While one sleepless night isn’t likely to cause permanent damage, chronic sleep deprivation can be dangerous. According to Dr London:
It increases the risk of type 2 diabetes.
It raises the likelihood of heart disease and other cardiovascular problems.
Certain types of cancer can become more likely over time with ongoing poor sleep.
Sleep is foundational to maintaining healthy physiology. From a heart surgeon who deals with life-and-death situations daily, the message is that prioritising six to eight hours of quality sleep is essential for long-term health. Developing a consistent routine that aligns with natural daylight and darkness can help protect your heart, regulate hormones and improve overall well-being.
Practical Tips to Avoid Sleep Deprivation:
Stick to a regular sleep schedule, even on weekends.
Avoid screens and bright lights at least an hour before bed.
Keep your bedroom cool, quiet, and dark.
Limit caffeine and heavy meals in the evening.
Expose yourself to natural sunlight during the day to regulate your circadian rhythm.
Focusing on sleep isn’t just about feeling rested. It’s about protecting your body from serious health risks over time.
