Fundamental reason why some people need much less sleep identified

Genetics

One of the most important reasons is genetics. Some people have genetic abnormalities that allow them to function normally on less sleep. Studies have identified certain genes, such as DEC2, that are associated with a reduced need for sleep. These people may feel rested and refreshed after only 4-6 hours of sleep, while others may need more time to recover.

Adaptation and lifestyle

Lifestyle and adaptation also play an important role. Some people can train their bodies to function on less sleep due to work or personal needs. For example, workers in professions that require long hours or night shifts can adapt to shorter sleep patterns, although this is not always beneficial in the long run.

Mental health and stress

Mental health can also affect the amount of sleep a person needs. In some cases, stress or anxiety can lead to a reduced need for sleep, as the body may be in a constant state of alert. However, this can be counterproductive, as lack of adequate sleep can exacerbate mental health issues.

Here are some good habits to help improve your sleep:

• Stick to a sleep schedule. Go to bed and wake up at the same time. Do not break the routine on weekends.
• Go to bed only if you feel tired.
• Spend an hour before bedtime relaxing: take a soothing bath, or read a book.
• Create a comfortable place to sleep (keep it quiet and dim the lights, use a comfortable bed, pillow, and bedding).
• Ventilate the bedroom before going to bed and set the temperature to a comfortable level.

This material is for informational purposes only and should not be used for medical diagnosis or self-treatment. Our goal is to provide readers with accurate information about symptoms, causes, and methods of detecting diseases. RBС-Ukraine is not responsible for any diagnoses that readers may make based on materials from the resource. We do not recommend self-treatment and advise consulting a doctor in case of any health concerns.