Most athletes focus on their training programs and nutrition plans, but what about rest and recovery? Good sleep is one of the cornerstones of good health and is a powerful “training tool” in itself. While 7 to 9 hours is widely accepted as the optimal amount of sleep for most adults, getting too little can negatively affect your health. Sleep deprivation has become so common that many people may not even realize they are suffering from it. Some of the serious problems that a sleep deficit can cause include:
- A weakened immune system
- Poor memory
- Poor concentration and mental performance
- Poor physical performance
- Stress related disorders such as heart disease, ulcers, and depression
- Reduced growth hormone produced (accelerating the aging process)
- Hunger and weight gain