Saturday, July 26, 2008

Five Myths About Sleep

This article from Newsweek outlines 5 myths about sleep and has an interesting comment about what perhaps is our natural sleep pattern (see (Myth 1)):

(Myth 1) Humans need 8 hours sleep a night; the reality is that different cultures sleep different ways and apparently Western Europeans used to break their sleep in to a "first sleep" of 4 hours, then got up for a bit, and went back for a "second" sleep. It is noted that this in fact may be better suited to our sleep needs and natural patterns.

(Myth 2) Sleep isn't just a bodily function; the reality is that sleep is one of our systems, like we have a nervous system, and is weaker or stronger depending on the person. Also wears out and gets fragile with age (and that's not good news!!!)

(Myth 3) Animals don't have sleep problems; the article states that this is not true but there is not much support for this one so I am skeptical.

(Myth 4) Falling asleep is a gradual process; the reality is that it is more of a switch but those with sleep disorders don't have a properly functioning one. I found this interesting as I don't usually have problems getting to sleep as staying asleep is my problem (and that I have a prescription to help me with)

(Myth 5) Sleeping less burns more calories; the reality is that as you get more tired your natural appetite depressants are decreased and you become more not less hungry.