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Ever noticed how you tend to feel more energised after barely sleeping the night before, compared to getting a full night’s rest? Scientifically, it should not make sense. Research has consistently shown that sleeping too little leads to poorer concentration, lower energy, slower reaction times, and weaker immunity – even if someone feels okay temporarily. Then what’s the logic behind this anomaly?
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Dr Krishnasree K S, Associate Consultant – Department of Neurology, KIMSHEALTH Trivandrum, said that in general, people who sleep only 4–5 hours are not more energetic than those who get adequate sleep (around 7–9 hours for most adults). However, here are some potential reasons why such a phenomenon may occur:
1. Short-term adrenaline: If someone is stressed, excited, or highly motivated, their body may release adrenaline or cortisol, making them feel awake despite little sleep.
2. Genetic differences (very rare): A tiny percentage of people have a genetic mutation (DEC2 gene) that allows them to function well in 4–6 hours of sleep; these are true short sleepers, but they’re extremely uncommon.
3. Adaptation illusion: Many people get used to feeling tired, so they don’t realise they’re operating below their best.
“Consistently sleeping only 4–5 hours might make you feel fine at times, but it usually harms focus, mood, metabolism, and long-term health,” she said, adding that the most energetic and healthy people tend to have regular, good-quality sleep of 7–8 hours.
Phone usage is a contributing factor to this issue. (Source: Freepik)
How does lack of sleep impact the body?
According to Dr K S, insufficient sleep can have a detrimental impact on the body in the long run. Consistent lack of sleep affects more than just your energy levels. Here’s what it does to your body:
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- Memory, focus, and decision making suffer, leading to slower reactions and lower productivity.
- Less sleep is linked to high blood pressure, irregular heartbeats, and a higher risk of heart disease.
- Sleep loss disrupts hormones that control hunger and stress, leading to overeating and weight gain
- Sleep deprivation reduces your body’s ability to fight infections, making you prone to frequent colds and illnesses.
- Chronic lack of sleep is tied to anxiety, depression, and irritability, impacting mental well being.
Dr Manjusha Agarwal, senior consultant in internal medicine at Gleneagles Hospital Parel Mumbai, pointed out that quality sleep is much more than just the number of hours you sleep. “Quality sleep means avoiding frequent wakeups during the night. To function properly throughout the day, one needs at least 7 to 8 hours of quality sleep,” said Dr Agarwal, agreeing with Dr K S.
Lifestyle choices such as high intake of caffeine and alcohol regularly and excessive screen time before bed are all major contributors to this phenomenon. In such cases, creating a disciplined sleeping pattern becomes crucial to improve your sleep. “Try to wake up and sleep at the same time daily. Avoid or limit your screen time before you go to bed. It is best to avoid caffeine or caffeinated drinks at night, as it can negatively affect your sleep,” said Dr Agarwal.
DISCLAIMER: This article is based on information from the public domain and/or the experts we spoke to. Always consult your health practitioner before starting any routine.
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