Sleep duration impacts lifespan, and sleeping habits reveal health secrets. Research from the University of Sydney in Australia and the University of Liverpool in the UK shows that different sleep patterns influence not only personality traits but also waist circumference, pain perception, and cancer risk. The UK's Daily Mail published studies by medical experts summarizing how various sleep habits affect health.
1. High-stress individuals who wake up early feel more fatigued
While early-to-bed, early-to-rise habits are generally considered beneficial, Dr. Simon Akol from the University of Surrey notes that individuals under significant psychological stress may experience increased fatigue. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends that high-stress individuals engage in aerobic exercise—such as playing sports, brisk walking, or jogging—at least twice weekly to alleviate tension.
2. Night owls are more prone to weight gain
Research shows early risers typically eat breakfast within half an hour of waking, while night owls are more likely to indulge in late-night snacks. This difference affects metabolic rates.Professor Rousseau Foster, a sleep expert at Oxford University, suggests that sleep deprivation disrupts leptin secretion, leading to weight gain—a problem exacerbated by chronic night owls. Psychologist Wang Xiaolei advises night owls to adjust their schedules even without sleepiness: go to bed on time, switch bedroom lighting to warm tones, wake up and eat breakfast at consistent times, and avoid eating after 9 PM—maintaining this routine for at least 21 days.
3. Poor Memory in Night Owls
Night owls experience poor quality REM sleep, which is crucial for the brain to process daytime experiences and consolidate memories. Research shows that individuals sleeping only 6 hours per night for two consecutive weeks exhibit impaired short-term memory. Aim for 7-8 hours of sleep nightly for optimal physical and mental health.
4. Chronic night owls experience increased pain
Dr. Chris Edwards, a rheumatology specialist at Southampton General Hospital in the UK, notes that frequent night owls wake up with more severe joint pain and stiffness. This occurs because around 4 a.m., the body releases anti-inflammatory factors that reduce pain and alleviate stiffness.Those who frequently stay up late often miss this process. Li Taoping advises that night owls should try to adjust their schedules. If staying up late is unavoidable, they can alleviate pain by eating more fresh fruits and vegetables and staying warm.Separate research indicates that individuals with chronic insomnia are 4 to 5 times more likely to develop major depression than those with adequate sleep. Psychologist Wang Xiaolei explains that sleep deprivation elevates stress hormones in the body, leading to fatigue and low mood even after occasional sleep deprivation. He advises night owls to limit catch-up sleep the next day and engage in regular exercise to maintain mental well-being. If depression persists, seeking timely medical help is essential.