A group of researchers led by scientists from Pennsylvania State University identified four types of sleep depending on its quality. According to them, sticking to a certain sleep pattern allows one to predict one’s long-term health status. Results of the study: shared In the journal Psychosomatic Medicine (Psycho Med).
During the study, scientists collected data on the health status of 3,683 Americans. Volunteers were asked to tell us what time they usually go to bed and wake up, how they compensate for lack of sleep, and whether they suffer from insomnia or other mental disorders. Based on the information received, researchers identified four main types of sleep: optimal, “weekends”, with clinical symptoms of insomnia and hygienic means of protection against physiological secretions (diapers).
Good sleepers had optimal sleep habits. They slept at least 7-9 hours at least 4 days a week. “Weekend sleepers” did not get enough sleep on weekdays, but compensated for the lack of rest by 7-9 hours or even more on weekends.
People with insomnia symptoms were characterized by sleep problems such as decreased sleep duration, daytime fatigue, and inability to fall asleep quickly. People who use diapers for various reasons are generally characterized by good sleep and the habit of napping during the day.
According to the researchers, 77% of the participants belonged to the last two groups. Neither sleep pattern was positive for the health and well-being of those who followed them, and insomnia increased the risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease, diabetes and depression by 72 to 188 percent. Weekend sleepers have no increased likelihood of developing such problems.
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