Sleeping is often equated to laziness or apathy. However, getting adequate sleep is imperative to maintaining proper health. According to the NCBI, sleeping less than 7 hours per night on a regular basis is associated with adverse health outcomes, including weight gain and obesity, diabetes, hypertension, heart disease and stroke, depression, and increased risk of death.

Conversely, sleeping excessively or daytime sleepiness may be a sign of other health problems. If you find yourself waking up feeling tired or not well rested consider investigating the cause which may reveal an underlying health concern. Getting enough sleep, but not too much sleep, is the goal for optimal wellness. Most experts agree, 7-9 hours of sleep per night is ideal for the majority of adults.