Common Sleep Myths Endanger Public Health

TUESDAY, April 16, 2019 (HealthDay News) — Mistaken beliefs about sleep are common and pose a significant health threat, a new study warns.

Among these myths: some people only need five hours of sleep; snoring is harmless; a drink before bedtime helps you fall asleep.

“Sleep is a vital part of life that affects our productivity, mood, and general health and well-being,” said lead investigator Rebecca Robbins. “Dispelling myths about sleep promotes healthier sleep habits which, in turn, promote overall better health.”

Robbins is a postdoctoral research fellow in the department of population health at NYU Langone Health in New York City.

For the study, the researchers reviewed more than 8,000 websites to identify the 20 most common beliefs about sleep.

One of the top myths was the claim of some people who insist they can get by on five hours of sleep a night. The study authors said this poses the most serious health risk due the effects of long-term lack of sleep.

Robbins and her colleagues suggested creating a consistent sleep schedule and getting at least seven hours of shut-eye a night.

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