How much sleep do you need?

Most adults need 7 to 9 hours of sleep each night. Kids and teens need even more. Yet the average high school student gets only 6.5 hours per school night, and about 20% get 5 hours or less! 

Benefits of good sleep

• Healing and repair of cells, tissues and blood vessels
• Better brain function including alertness, decision-making, focus, learning, memory, reasoning and problem-solving
• More creativity and productivity
• Improved mood and energy
• Healthy growth and development for kids and teens
• Better ability to build muscle
• Quicker reflexes
• Less risk of chronic disease
• Stronger immune system

Your Health

Poor sleep may put you at higher risk for:

• Alzheimer’s disease
• Cardiovascular disease
• Cognitive decline and dementia
• Depression
• Diabetes
• High blood pressure
• High blood sugar
• High cholesterol
• Infections
• Obesity

Poor sleep can cause:

• Accidents
• Breathing problems
• Hormone imbalance
• Memory and cognitive issues
• Increased appetite and unhealthy eating
• Inflammation
• Stress
• Weight gain

Remember: 7 to 9 will help you feel fine, so get your ZZZs!

Learn more at heart.org/Sleep

REFERENCE: https://www.heart.org/en/healthy-living/healthy-lifestyle/sleep/how-sleep-affects-health-infographic