WEEKEND LIE-INS AREN’T THE BEST FIX

THInK an hour’s lost sleep isn’t a bad thing? Here we bust some common myths about sleep...

MISSING AN HOUR OR TWO WON’T HURT ME:

Studies show that skipping sleep affects your memory, your brain’s processing speed and your mood. And even if it’s only an hour or so, lost sleep is detrimental in the long term.

YOUR BRAIN RESTS WHEN YOU SLEEP:

The brain is incredibly active during sleep as it consolidates memories, organises thought processes and clears away waste products that accumulate during the day.

SNORING IS COMMON AND NOTHING TO WORRY ABOUT:

For some people snoring can be harmless, but for others it can be an indication of sleep apnoea (see box, top left).

OLDER PEOPLE DON’T NEED AS MUCH SLEEP:

The elderly need just as much sleep as other adults (an average of seven to eight hours per night) but struggle to get adequate sleep due to changes in the brain that occur as we age.

I CAN MAKE UP FOR LOST SLEEP D: AT THE WEEKEND:

and pay back some of what you missed during the week, but it’s not the same as getting regular, quality sleep all week, which is the best option for cognitive and overall health.