Sleeping Over 9 Hours May Be More Harmful Than Sleeping Too Little, Warns Study
Sleeping Over 9 Hours May Be More Harmful Than Sleeping Too Little, Warns Study
While lack of sleep is known to damage health, new findings reveal that oversleeping can carry even greater risks, including a 34% higher mortality rate.
In a surprising revelation that challenges the conventional wisdom of “more sleep is better,” recent research suggests that sleeping more than nine hours a night could be more harmful than not sleeping enough. Although inadequate sleep has long been associated with health risks—affecting brain function, heart health, and overall well-being—scientists are now warning that excessive sleep may pose even greater dangers.
Sleep, alongside nutrition and physical activity, is a crucial pillar of good health. It supports critical processes such as muscle repair, memory consolidation, and emotional regulation. Australia’s Sleep Health Foundation recommends seven to nine hours of sleep per night for adults. While a few individuals can function well on less than seven hours, the majority experience negative effects from chronic under-sleeping, including fatigue, mood swings, poor concentration, and long-term risks like cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, depression, and even cancer.
However, a comprehensive new study reviewing data from 79 prior studies, tracking participants for at least one year has found a worrying trend. People who slept less than seven hours had a 14% higher risk of dying during the study period. Surprisingly, those who slept more than nine hours a night faced a 34% increased risk of death compared to those who slept between seven and eight hours.
This aligns with findings from a 2018 review of 74 studies, which also indicated that sleeping over nine hours was associated with a 14% increased risk of mortality. Additionally, oversleeping has been linked to other health concerns like chronic pain, depression, weight gain, and metabolic disorders.
Experts caution that while the data shows a link, it does not establish a direct cause. Many people with chronic health conditions tend to sleep longer due to their body’s need for more rest or the effects of medication. Poor sleep quality may also lead them to stay in bed longer, attempting to get restorative sleep. Moreover, lifestyle factors like smoking and obesity, which are themselves health risks are often associated with irregular sleep patterns.
Sleep needs vary based on individual factors, including age. Teenagers may require more sleep between eight and ten hours, while older adults often spend more time in bed without needing extra rest. For most adults, the optimal duration remains between seven and nine hours.
Health experts emphasize that it’s not just the quantity but also the quality and consistency of sleep that matter. Maintaining a regular sleep schedule and ensuring restful, uninterrupted sleep may be more important than hitting a specific hour count.
Prioritizing balanced sleep, neither too little nor too much along with healthy habits, may be the best way to support long-term well-being.
