“The Connection to Cardiovascular Disease”
Lack of sleep has also been linked to an increased risk of cardiovascular disease. Studies have shown that individuals who get less than 8 hours of sleep per night are at a higher risk of developing high blood pressure, heart attacks, and stroke. When you don’t get enough sleep, your body produces more stress hormones which can cause your blood pressure to rise, increasing the risk of cardiovascular disease.
“The Effect on Immune Function”
Getting enough sleep is essential for maintaining a strong immune system. Lack of sleep can weaken the immune system, making it less able to fight off infections and illnesses. This makes it more likely for you to get sick when you don’t sleep enough. Research also suggests that people who don’t get enough sleep are more likely to catch colds and other common infections.