No matter how much we strive to eat healthy or exercise regularly, there is one factor that can undermine all our efforts. A recent study by American scientists has shown that sleep duration has a much greater impact on life expectancy than eating habits or physical activity. It turns out that even a single night without proper rest can negatively affect your health, and chronic sleep deprivation can significantly cut years off your life.
As part of a large-scale analysis, experts from Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU) examined survey data from U.S. residents collected between 2019 and 2025. Participants reported how many hours they slept per day, along with information about their lifestyle, education level, and employment. The researchers compared this data with life expectancy indicators and drew some unexpected conclusions.
The impact of sleep
It was found that people who sleep less than seven hours a day are more likely to face the risk of premature death. In fact, this link proved stronger than with more familiar factors like diet or physical activity. According to sleep physiologist Andrew McHill, the results surprised even the scientists themselves: they did not expect lack of sleep to be such a powerful predictor of longevity.
Even after accounting for other variables—such as physical activity, employment, and education—the link between short sleep and reduced life expectancy remained strong. The only factor found to be even more dangerous was smoking. All other habits and life conditions were less significant than sleep.
Health and Sleep
Why is sleep so essential for the body? The answer is that a full night’s rest is necessary to restore all the body’s systems. Lack of sleep disrupts immune function, affects metabolism, and can contribute to obesity and diabetes. Even one sleepless night can alter brain function and increase cravings for unhealthy food.
The study did not aim to prove that short sleep is the direct cause of early death, but the statistics speak for themselves. Researchers emphasize that sleep duration is not just about how you feel—it’s an important indicator of overall health and potential lifespan.
Habits That Can Be Changed
The good news is that sleep habits can be adjusted. Of course, it’s not always possible to go to bed earlier—work and family responsibilities can get in the way—but even small changes can be beneficial. Experts advise against scrolling through news feeds in bed, recommend trying relaxing practices like yoga or tai chi, and suggest sticking to a regular sleep schedule where possible.
The American Academy of Sleep Medicine and the Sleep Research Society recommend that adults get at least seven hours of sleep per day. Some studies suggest that it’s possible to catch up on sleep a bit over the weekend if you don’t get enough rest during the week. However, chronic sleep deprivation still has a negative impact on your health.
Making Sleep a Priority
The authors emphasize that taking care of your sleep should become as important a habit as eating well or exercising. Ignoring this aspect is not only a risk to your well-being, but also to your lifespan. Even if you don’t smoke, eat healthily, and stay active, lack of sleep can undermine all your efforts.
Overall, the study once again highlights that a good night’s sleep is not a luxury, but a necessity. If you want to live longer, start with the basics—establish a healthy sleep routine.
If you didn’t know, Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU) is one of the leading research centers in the US for medicine and biology. The university regularly conducts large-scale studies on health, lifestyle, and disease prevention. OHSU experts work closely with international scientific organizations and bring the latest breakthroughs into clinical practice.
