A healthy person needs 7 to 8 hours of good sleep every day. When we sleep, the body repairs cells, organizes brain memories, and strengthens the immune system. However, the condition of not getting enough sleep or the quality of sleep decreases is scientifically called insomnia. Chronic lack of sleep can lead to diabetes, heart disease, and severe depression. Here are the 5 main scientific reasons behind lack of sleep:
Lack of melatonin hormone and mobile use: Melatonin is the hormone that tells our body that it is night and it is time to sleep. This hormone, produced by the pineal gland in the brain, is activated when it is dark. However, when we use mobile phones, TVs, and laptops late at night, the blue light emitted from them keeps the brain awake and disrupts the production of melatonin. This is the most important reason for not being able to sleep.
Severe mental stress and anxiety: When the mind is disturbed due to problems at work, financial difficulties, and thoughts, the body releases stress hormones like cortisol and adrenaline in large quantities. These hormones increase the heart rate and keep the body always alert (Fight or Flight mode). This does not allow the brain to fall into a comfortable sleep.
Variations in Circadian Rhythm: Our body has a natural biological clock, which is called the circadian rhythm. This biological clock is disrupted in people who work night shifts (Shift work) and those who do not follow a regular schedule for sleeping and waking up. This makes it impossible for the body to recognize when it is time to sleep.
Excessive use of caffeine and poor diet: Caffeine, which is found in tea, coffee, and energy drinks, is a stimulant that blocks the sleep-inducing factors (Adenosine receptors) in the brain. Drinking coffee late at night can affect sleep for up to 6 hours. Along with this, eating heavy meals with high calories at night can cause indigestion and acidity (GERD) and can disrupt sleep.
Some health conditions and medications: Chronic pain in the body, thyroid disorders (Hyperthyroidism), sleep apnea that causes difficulty breathing, and frequent urination at night due to diabetes can disrupt sleep. In addition, sleeplessness can also occur as a side effect of some medications taken for BP, asthma, and depression.
