Regular Sleep Patterns Why Human Beings Need

¶ … Regular sleep patterns [...] why human beings need a regular sleep pattern. Biologically, humans suffer if their sleep patterns are not regular and consistent in a variety of ways, as evidence will show.

When you do not get enough sleep, you can be cranky and out of sorts. You may have trouble concentrating and retaining information, as well. However, there are some compelling biological reasons to make sure you have regular sleep patterns. Your health and well-being can suffer because of irregular sleep patterns. In fact, lack of sleep can even make you fat. A writer notes, "Deep sleep is key to the release of hormones that play a role in hunger and appetite. A lack of rest can therefore cause you to overeat and crave foods high in fat and sugar" (Grimes, 2008). If you vary your sleep patterns for many months, it could help you put on weight and create a very unhealthy situation. Another study indicates the same findings. Another writer notes, "It also seems that people who sleep for fewer than four hours a night are 73 per cent more likely to gain excess weight, while restricting sleep can lead to cravings for up to 900 extra calories a day" (Everett, 2010, p. 37). Biologically, the body needs sleep. Most doctors recommend at least seven to eight hours a night, but most people admit they do not get that much sleep.

In addition, varying sleep patterns can cause many other health issues. The same writer continues, "The quantity and quality of sleep can also affect cardiovascular health. Studies show that if either is insufficient, you may be setting yourself up for obesity, heart disease or diabetes" (Grimes, 2008). While it may not seem important now, as you age, varying sleep patterns put you at risk for a variety of health issues, and with the world's health declining, getting enough sleep seems like a simple way to help ensure you have the best health you possibly can.

Not getting enough stress can also add to your stress levels. Another writer notes, "The more tired you are, the more you want to sleep, and the more you stress about not being able to sleep. This then becomes a vicious cycle that just worsens the problem" (Editors, 2010). With increased stress levels, the body is less able to ward off illness and disease. Author Grimes continues, "Without sufficient rest, the immune system is less able to knock out foreign invaders that come your way" (Grimes, 2008). Lack of sleep can make you vulnerable to illness, which only adds to the stress levels, leading to more lack of sleep.

Humans need a regular sleep pattern in order to recover for the next day. They need REM sleep to be at their best, and their memory can be depleted if they do not get enough sleep. Studies indicated that the frontal cortex does not function properly if sleep deprived, and a regular sleep pattern reduces the waste product adenosine. Adenosine inhibits brains cells, and that can keep people awake, as well. A good sleep is necessary for mental health, too. You should not exercise right before you go to bed, you should try to work out three or four hours before bedtime, and you should avoid any other stimulants before bedtime (Grimes, 2008).