How much sleep do you really need?

Ever seen those conflicting news articles that tell you exactly how much sleep you need? One day you need 8 hours, and another time you’re told that just 6 hours is sufficient.

So the question of the day is this: how much sleep do you REALLY need?

The truth is; there is no magic number. Even though doctors recommend 7-8 hours of sleep per night, it’s all a matter of your lifestyle and your health because everyone functions differently. Some adults can function normally with only around 6 hours of sleep, while others may require 9 hours sleep just to get though the day. Either way, it is important to pay attention to your own needs when it comes to how much sleep you get per night.

So how many hours of sleep do YOU need in order to feel well-rested throughout the day? Well there are a number of factors that can determine the number that is best for you. Here is a list of factors that may alter the amount of sleep that you may need:

  • Your age: This is one of the biggest contributing factors that determine the amount of sleep you need. Children generally require more sleep than the average middle aged adult, but even some adults need more sleep than others, especially as they age. The older you get, the more your sleeping patterns are likely to change (for example, taking more naps and/or sleeping for shorter periods of time) it all depends on your lifestyle
  • If you are pregnant: Needless to say, sleep becomes very important when your body is going through so many changes, like it does when you are pregnant, this is why doctors recommend a little more sleep for pregnant women than they may normally be used to.
  • If you are already sleep deprived: Well this one is a no-brainer but if you still feel tired and unable to function throughout the day, it is best that you make sleep even more of a priority and stick to a routine every night that will help you get more shut eye and feeling well rested throughout the day.

All in all, you are the only one who knows exactly how much sleep YOU need to have a happy and productive life!

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http://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-living/adult-health/expert-answers/how-many-hours-of-sleep-are-enough/faq-20057898

http://sleepfoundation.org/how-sleep-works/how-much-sleep-do-we-really-need