Sleep according to the age chart .. How much sleep do you really need?

Sleep should be a priority for everyone because it greatly affects how an individual functions, but how much sleep should you get each night?

Sleep is fundamental to the growth and development of infants, young children and adolescents. It’s also important because it enables your body and mind to recharge, keeping you refreshed and alert when you wake up. Healthy sleep ensures that your body is healthy and can defend itself from disease, and without this, your brain is unable to function properly.

Lack of sleep can cause a range of problems, from mood disorders to more serious ailments.

One in three people suffer from poor sleep with stress, and computers and taking work home are often blamed for the sleep disturbance.

Regular sleepless nights can put you at risk of many serious medical conditions, including obesity, heart disease and diabetes.

Doctors and medical professionals have also linked lack of sleep to a shorter life expectancy.

How do you know if you take enough sleep?
Most people need eight hours of sleep each night to function properly. However, everyone is different and some need more or less of it.

All in all, if you wake up tired and spend the whole day thinking about getting a nap, you probably aren’t getting enough sleep.

According to the NHS, children need the following amount of sleep according to their age:

• Babies from 4 to 12 months old – 12 to 16 hours including naps.

• Toddlers from 1 to 2 years old – 11 to 14 hours including naps.

• Children from 3 to 5 years old – 10 to 13 hours, including naps.

• Children from 6 to 12 years old – from 9 to 12 hours.

• Teenagers from 13 to 18 years old – 8 to 10 hours.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention notes that adults also need a different amount of sleep depending on the individual’s age.

For those ages 18 to 60, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends that adults get seven or more hours of sleep each night.

For those aged 61 to 64, seven to nine hours of sleep is recommended each night.

Seven to eight hours of sleep is recommended each night for those 65 years of age or older.

Tips to get a good night’s sleep

• Try to have a regular routine with regular hours of sleep.

• Take time to unwind before bed with soothing activities such as a warm bath, relaxation exercises, or reading a book.

• Avoid smartphones and other electronic devices that can have a negative impact on your ability to sleep soundly.

• Make sure your bedroom is a comfortable environment – make sure it is dark, quiet and tidy and the temperature is between 18 and 24°C.

• Monitor your caffeine intake and reduce if necessary – especially later in the day.

Source: Express