A recent research indicated that indulgence in extra sleep on weekends could contribute to premature aging.
The study, published in the journal, revealed that adults who sleep significantly longer on weekends than during the week exhibit shorter telomeres—protective caps on chromosomes that serve as indicators of biological aging.
Analyzing data from 6,052 adults who participated in the U.S. National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey from 2011 to 2014, researchers found a striking difference: those who averaged 7.5 hours of sleep on weekdays but extended their weekend sleep to 9.5 hours had telomeres that were 40% shorter compared to individuals who maintained a consistent sleep pattern of 7.5 hours nightly.
The study's authors attribute this phenomenon to disruptions in the body's circadian rhythm, or sleep-wake cycle. Sleeping in on weekends can misalign our internal body clocks with external time cues, potentially leading to a host of health issues.
Previous studies have linked irregular sleep patterns to problems such as obesity, diabetes, heart disease, stroke, and depression.
To mitigate the adverse effects associated with erratic sleep habits, researchers recommend adhering to a consistent sleep schedule, even on weekends.
Additionally, the research urged the need to limit the exposure to bright light and reducing electronic device usage before bedtime.
While maintaining a regular sleep pattern can be challenging for those with young children, irregular work hours, or early morning commitments, there are strategies to help.
The recommendations have also been included to go to bed and wake up at the same time daily, avoid daytime napping, and ensure a dark, quiet, and cool sleeping environment.
