Experts highlight the importance of at least seven hours of sleep each night, yet many people struggle due to stress, insomnia, or external factors. A recent survey by sleep technology company Simba, analyzed with AI, showed how lack of rest can affect the body. Higher cortisol levels from poor sleep may worsen skin conditions such as eczema and psoriasis, while reduced blood flow can make the skin look dull and tired.
In the study, 24% of participants reported skin sensitivity, 16% eczema, 7% psoriasis, and 10% a dull complexion. Around 15% also noticed brittle nails, suggesting that insufficient sleep may interfere with the body’s repair processes. Weight issues were another concern, as 26% of participants who slept less were overweight and 32% reported bloating.
Experts explain that disrupted sleep alters hunger hormones ghrelin and leptin, increasing appetite and cravings, particularly for high-calorie foods.
Men may be more prone to abdominal fat due to lower testosterone, while women may see fat stored in hips and thighs. Some individuals also reported cold hands and feet, likely linked to circadian rhythm disruptions that affect temperature regulation.
Research has even suggested a connection between poor sleep and constipation, underlining the role of rest in digestive health. While needs vary, most adults benefit from 7 to 9 hours of quality sleep, with children, teens, and babies requiring more to support healthy growth.
