Scientists Reveal: Why Excessive Sleep Is Dangerous for Health

Extended sleep under scientists' microscope: more than 9 hours - danger or symptom of a problem?

As reported by TUT.AZ, an international group of researchers has challenged the widespread belief about the benefits of prolonged sleep, analyzing data from The Conversation portal.

Sleep is a cornerstone of human health, standing alongside proper nutrition and physical activity. During nighttime hours, our body is busy with vital processes: muscle tissue restoration, memory formation, and emotional background regulation. Medical recommendations for adults remain unchanged - from seven to nine hours. It has been scientifically proven that chronic sleep deprivation increases the likelihood of developing heart attacks, strokes, diabetes, anxiety disorders, immune disorders, and can lead to premature death. However, the impact of excessive sleep has long remained a subject of scientific debate.

A large-scale analysis of 79 studies with an observation period of at least one year revealed an alarming pattern: in people who sleep less than seven hours, the risk of death during the study period increases by approximately 14%. However, even more concerning indicators were found in those who regularly sleep more than nine hours - the increase in risk was about 34%. Previous meta-analyses showed similar results. At first glance, these figures clearly indicate the harm of prolonged sleep. But scientists warn: in this matter, cause and effect may be confused.

Researchers explain that increased sleep duration often accompanies existing diseases. People may sleep longer because the body is trying to restore strength, not because prolonged sleep itself is harmful. Chronic pain, depressive states, metabolic disorders, heart and vascular problems, medication side effects - all these factors force people to spend more time in bed. At the same time, the quality of such sleep is often unsatisfactory, and people unconsciously try to compensate for it with increased duration. Thus, prolonged sleep may be an indicator of health problems, not their root cause.

Scientists emphasize the individuality of sleep needs. Teenagers physiologically need eight to ten hours, and their tendency to stay up late is quite natural. Elderly people have increased time spent in bed, but not the actual need for sleep. For most adults, the seven-to-nine hour range remains optimal. Equally important are stable routine, continuity, and sleep quality - the latter has an even stronger impact on health than duration.

Experts call for a calm attitude toward this issue. In today's world, where chronic sleep deprivation has become the norm, it is much more important to ensure sufficient sleep within recommended guidelines than to worry about excess. However, if a person unexpectedly starts sleeping for ten to twelve hours and wakes up without feeling rested, this is a serious reason to pay attention to their condition and consult a doctor. In such cases, changes in sleep patterns may serve as an early sign of processes requiring medical intervention.

The main conclusion of the study is crystal clear: sufficient sleep is beneficial for health, while excessive sleep is not dangerous in itself but may signal hidden problems. The best thing one can do for their well-being is to establish a regular sleep schedule, reduce stress levels, get more natural light during the day, and create optimal conditions for