Regularly getting too little sleep has been associated with developing type 2 diabetes, so researchers set out to gather information on why this might happen. Thirty-eight women who usually got seven to nine hours of sleep a night were asked to cut their sleep time by one-and-a-half hours a night. Blood glucose and insulin levels were measured during six weeks of regular sleep and six weeks of restricted sleep.
Sleeping six hours and 12 minutes a night (the average sleep duration of U.S. adults with short sleep) led to insulin resistance, especially in postmenopausal women. Insulin resistance means the body has built up a tolerance to insulin, making the hormone less effective at moving glucose from the bloodstream into cells (see Weight Loss Associated with Remission of Type 2 Diabetes, above, for more information on the health impacts of this condition).
Chronic inadequate sleep is also associated with increased risk of developing high blood pressure, obesity, and cardiovascular disease. Aim for at least seven hours of quality sleep a night. A healthy dietary pattern, regular physical activity, and stress reduction are associated with better sleep. If a medical problem (like frequent urination, sleep apnea, or restless leg syndrome) interrupts your sleep, see a healthcare professional.