How Going To Bed After Midnight Affects Your Health; Experts Weigh In

In today’s fast-paced world, people often overlook the importance of maintaining a healthy sleep cycle. From scrolling through social media to late-night study sessions, individuals tend to undervalue the significance of a proper sleep schedule. Despite numerous studies emphasising the importance of adequate sleep, many compromise on this essential aspect of well-being.

The recommended duration for a good night’s sleep is 7-8 hours, contributing to both physical and mental health. Research has consistently shown that going to bed early is associated with a natural circadian rhythm, enhancing energy levels and overall mental well-being. Studies also suggest that adjusting sleep patterns to an earlier time can lead to reduced levels of depression and stress.

In a recent interaction, Gastroenterologist Dr. Saurabh Sethi sheds light on the adverse effects of sleeping after midnight, underscoring the impact on the body’s health.

Dr. Sethi outlined key repercussions, emphasising that an inadequate sleep cycle, less than 7 to 8 hours, may result in weight gain, affect mood, increase stress levels, and impair daytime focus and cognitive abilities.

Maintaining a proper sleep routine is crucial for preserving cognitive functions such as memory, focus, and alertness. It also plays a pivotal role in supporting physical health by regulating metabolism and strengthening immune function. Research has indicated a correlation between sleep deprivation and various chronic conditions, including obesity, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and specific types of cancers.

The consequences of improper sleep not only affect personal well-being but also impair judgment and reaction times, increasing the risk of accidents and injuries. Additionally, it impacts academic performance and personal relationships.

In an interview with India Today, sleep expert Dr Yong Chiat Wong explained that during sleep, the body undergoes a consolidation process.

Dr. Wong clarified, “While we perceive our bodies as not moving during sleep, the reality is that our brain is actively engaged. Throughout the night, it works on tasks such as development, learning, and the conversion of short-term memory into long-term memory. These processes occur exclusively during the nighttime hours.”

Experts recommend adhering to a regular sleep routine and avoiding stimulants like caffeine before bedtime to cultivate healthy sleep habits. Engaging in a daily exercise routine and consuming a nutritious breakfast are also advised to enhance sleep quality, according to experts.