The hidden cost of sleeping just six hours a night

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It may seem like six hours of sleep is good enough, but research suggests otherwise. Studies have shown that getting only six hours per night can impair cognitive function and alertness just as much as pulling an all-nighter, especially when the sleep debt builds up over time. To stay sharp and energized, aim for 7–9 hours of rest each night. If you’re feeling sluggish during the day, try stepping outside for sunlight, taking a short walk, drinking more water, avoiding caffeine later in the day, or fitting in a quick nap to recharge.

Source

Van Dongen, H. P., Maislin, G., Mullington, J. M., & Dinges, D. F. (2003). The cumulative cost of additional wakefulness: dose-response effects on neurobehavioral functions and sleep physiology from chronic sleep restriction and total sleep deprivation. Sleep, 26(2), 117–126. https://doi.org/10.1093/sleep/26.2.117

Additional Reading

https://www.fastcompany.com/3057465/why-six-hours-of-sleep-is-as-bad-as-none-at-all

https://www.sleepfoundation.org/sleep-faqs/is-6-hours-of-sleep-enough

https://www.today.com/health/sleep/is-6-hours-of-sleep-enough-rcna117213