How does sleep divide people into 4 types?

If you're not someone who sleeps well at night, you're probably an insomniac who naps or sleeps in on the weekends.

According to a recent study published in the journal Psychosomatic Medicine, if considered in terms of sleep, people will be divided into 4 types.

These sleepers are the dream of hundreds of millions of people across the globe who struggle with sleep-related problems. (Source: Shutterstock).

1. People who sleep well

These people maintain healthy habits, going to bed and waking up at the same time every day. They fall asleep easily, sleep uninterrupted, wake up feeling satisfied and alert throughout the day.

These sleepers are the dream of hundreds of millions of people across the globe who struggle with sleep-related problems.

2. People who sleep in on weekends

For these people, days off - usually Saturday and Sunday - are spent sleeping. More specifically, they try to "repay" their sleep debt. They try to make up for the hours of sleep they missed during the week.

Research shows that adults should aim for 7 to 9 hours of sleep each night. A person who sleeps only six hours a day for a week will be sleep deprived by at least seven hours.

A 2019 paper published in Current Biology found that people who slept less than five hours per night during the week and compensated by sleeping more on the weekend still experienced negative effects.

These include increased after-dinner snacking, reduced overall calorie burn due to things like less exercise.

People who 'sleep in' on weekends do not receive more benefits than those who don't. In short, taking time off on the weekends does not seem to be a good substitute for the habit of getting enough sleep every day.

3. People with insomnia

 Insomnia negatively affects work performance. (Source: Shutterstock)

These people with difficulty sleeping often have classic symptoms such as: difficulty sleeping, daytime fatigue, and prolonged sleep onset.

According to the Cleveland Clinic (USA), an estimated one in three people have symptoms of insomnia. Studies show that insomnia negatively affects work performance, affects decision making, can damage relationships, increases the risk of traffic accidents, and leads to decline. life quality.

A 2023 study published in the journal Psychosomatic Medicine warned that insufficient sleep and insomnia are strongly linked to increased susceptibility to age-related diseases and can accelerate aging. biochemistry.

4. People who take naps

This group of people generally has good sleeping habits but often naps.

In 2023, a British study found that short naps of 5 to 15 minutes can help improve cognitive abilities and potentially protect against the effects of aging on the brain.

There are a few different ways to go from being a rough sleeper to being a good sleeper. (Source: Mainichi)

As we age, our brains shrink. According to researchers, short and frequent naps can help reduce this.

Dr. Jacky Ho, a sleep science expert at Saint Joseph's University in Macau, says there are a few different ways to go from being a rough sleeper to being a good sleeper.

The World Sleep Society has published ways to improve sleep, from following your body's clock to limiting certain foods or drinks before bed and adjusting your sleep environment.

All of these have been shown to aid sleep, says Dr. Ho.

However, Ho emphasizes that improving sleep quality requires a careful look at our daily habits. That includes stopping eating too much sugary food, drinking less caffeine and spending less time on your phone.

Dr. Ho notes that the type of sleeper we are is 'a reflection of how we prioritize and value the importance of sleep. Because in today's society, sleep time is often sacrificed to make room for other things."

Ho offers additional advice for people who are having trouble sleeping.

Ho says: ' Avoid foods high in protein or fat, especially meals before bed as it takes longer to digest. In addition, some people believe that alcohol can help us fall asleep quickly, however this can also be a factor that disrupts sleep and worsens sleep apnea.

In addition to being an important factor for work performance and improving mood, there is also evidence that good quality sleep can help the body absorb nutrients better and may support aids in enhancing memory.

During sleep, the brain has the opportunity to remove 'waste,' improving its function. Additionally, sleep strengthens the immune system, allowing it to fight bacteria and viruses effectively.