Neurologist Warns Irregular Sleep Raises Heart Risks and Can Shorten Life by Disrupting 7-9 Hour Routine
Updated
Updated · Lancs Live · May 14
Neurologist Warns Irregular Sleep Raises Heart Risks and Can Shorten Life by Disrupting 7-9 Hour Routine
1 articles · Updated · Lancs Live · May 14
Dr Baibing Chen said shifting sleep times — even while still getting eight hours — can make the brain feel like it is crossing time zones every weekend, harming health over time.
The mechanism, he said, is circadian disruption: an inconsistent schedule confuses the body clock that regulates cortisol, melatonin, insulin, blood pressure, metabolism, temperature and immune function.
That disruption is linked to higher rates of heart disease, stroke, obesity, diabetes and depression, while also worsening mood, focus, reaction time and energy day to day.
One BMC Cardiovascular Disorders study cited in the report found irregular sleep timing was a significant risk factor for major adverse cardiovascular events among people sleeping under 8 hours, especially when bedtimes varied.
Chen and the NHS both recommend adults keep a consistent 7-9 hour sleep schedule, with regular bedtimes and wake times rather than sleeping in after a poor night.
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