The Impact of Sleep Debt

According to Matthew Walker, 1 in 3 adults are walking through their lives in sleep debt or under slept.

Under slept implies that you’re not functioning to your full capacity due to a lack of sleep. This means that bodies are more prone to stress, even if it’s mild and undetectable.

There are a number of signs to look out for that may indicate you’re sleep deprived:

1. You’re tossing and turning for over 30 minutes before you fall asleep. This can imply that your bodies internal workings might be worn out.
2. You can’t remember words for everyday conversations, due to a foggy brain. Your mind is so tired that it can’t get through it’s second-nature functions.
3. Fatigue induced clumsiness. According to a 2021 study from MIT, fatigue induced clumsiness can affect the way we walk and talk. This means we are more prone to bumping into our surroundings, such as walls and doors more often.
4. If you’re not getting your required sleep this can lead to poor cognitive function. The hardest part of the of the brain to use, is the creative and problem-solving side, leading to lower creativity.
5. You may find yourself extra thirsty during the day due to a hormone called vasopressin. This hormone is produced in the later stages of sleep helps to prevent dehydration.
6. Are you feeling snacky? A lack of sleep can trigger increased levels of the hormone ghrelin and decreased levels of leptin3, leading to increased hunger and appetite. Snacks and sweets tend to tempt us when we’re running low on good rest and we turn to a sugary treat.
7. Do you have an emotional short fuse? A lack of sleep may create a short temper. There is a connection between sleep deprivation and mood changes such as increased anger and aggression.

If you’re resonating with any of these subtle indicators, then perhaps it’s time to reflect and upon your sleep health. Try some sleep tips here.