We ALL Need a Good Night's SLEEP

Hey there! Today we want to share some fresh evidence on sleep and some potential outcomes of your children not getting enough sleep. And I say children because the population of this study was specific to those aged 8-17 years old. But know that sleep is an important factor for all ages.

Though these researchers found that children with insufficient sleep, around 7 hours/night, were more likely to have poorer lifestyle characteristics when compared to children and adolescents with sufficient sleep, around 9 to 10 hours, respectively. The difference in lifestyle characteristics were found to be unhealthier dietary habits, increased screen time, and being classified as overweight/obese. The study also mentions the possible improvement in sleep sufficiency with improving aerobic fitness.

Now you may be thinking, 7 hours is pretty good. However, the recommendation for children and adolescents is much higher than that of adults. In a census statement from The American Academy of Sleep Medicine, the organization recommends within a 24 hour period children aged 3-5 should sleep 10-13 hours (including naps), children aged 6-12 should sleep 9-12, and adolescents/teens aged 13-18 should sleep 8-10 hours. The organization also reports that “sleeping fewer than the number of recommended hours is associated with attention, behavior, and learning problems. Insufficient sleep also increases the risk of accidents, injuries, hypertension, obesity, diabetes, and depression.”

If you’re looking for ways to improve you or your child’s sleep habits, as well as other information related to sleep, check out the National Sleep Foundation and Tuck.

Until next time,

Fuel Physio Team