HealthScientists reveal best sleep times to reduce heart disease risk

Scientists reveal best sleep times to reduce heart disease risk

The best time to sleep? It depends on gender
The best time to sleep? It depends on gender
Images source: © Pexels | Acharaporn Kamornboonyarush

7:11 PM EDT, June 20, 2024

There have been many publications about how to sleep to get the best rest. This includes which position to choose, whether to ventilate the room, what to eat before sleep, and even the bedding color. Scientists have finally explained when it is best to go to sleep. This advice isn't just about getting enough rest but is also crucial for our health.

It all depends on gender

Obesity, smoking, and a sedentary lifestyle significantly increase the risk of high blood pressure. However, the time we go to bed is also essential. For men, the healthiest time appears to be 11:00 PM. It's important to remember that high blood pressure is a leading cause of heart attacks and strokes.

Scientists studied over 14,000 women and men and concluded that starting sleep at 11:00 PM reduces the risk of health issues related to heart function. Research conducted by experts from the University of South China showed that men who went to bed at 11:00 PM were 32% less likely to suffer from high blood pressure than those who went to bed earlier or later.

For women the healthiest sleep time is midnight

Scientists also added that starting sleep at other times "distorts" our internal clock, which causes an increase in blood pressure. Interestingly, this also raises the level of psychological stress in the body, thereby increasing the risk of heart disease.

How much sleep to get enough rest?

We already know the best time to go to bed, but the length of nighttime rest is equally important. Going to bed late and consequently waking up later results in much lower quality sleep and can lead to disorientation in time.

The older we get, the less sleep we need. Newborns and infants need the most sleep, but getting less than 6 hours is not advisable for adults. This increases the risk of developing Alzheimer's and dementia, and our body's resistance decreases. The optimal length of sleep is between 7 and 9 hours.