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Chronic sleep deprivation is a major risk factor for serious health problems, including hypertension, cardiovascular diseases, stroke, obesity, and type 2 diabetes. It also weakens the immune system, making you more susceptible to infections.
Key effects:
Heart and blood vessels: Sleep loss raises cortisol levels, increases blood pressure, and triggers inflammation in arteries, raising the risk of heart attacks and strokes.
Hypertension: Normally, blood pressure drops during sleep. Without enough rest, it remains high, overloading the cardiovascular system.
Obesity: Sleep deprivation disrupts hunger hormones — leptin decreases and ghrelin rises — leading to overeating and weight gain.
Type 2 diabetes: Poor sleep reduces insulin sensitivity, forcing the pancreas to work harder, which can eventually contribute to diabetes.
Getting enough quality sleep is essential for protecting your heart, metabolism, and overall health. Even small daily sleep deficits can accumulate and cause serious long-term effects.
