Sleep deprivation and arrhythmias: Why late nights put young hearts at risk

Pulling off an all-nighter may seem harmless. But sleep deprivation over the long term, can take a toll on the body. The human body requires a minimum of 6-8 hours of sleep to restore and maintain essential functions. While at rest, the brain cycles through different types of sleep patterns, one of the most important ones being restorative sleep. During this stage, cortisol levels gradually drop and hunger suppressing hormones are active. Moreover, all organs systems of the body, including the nervous system, immune system, and cardiovascular system go through a process of repair. The absence of sleep prevents individuals from entering this restorative phase, giving rise to multiple health problems including inflammation, metabolic abnormalities and eventually weight gain. Sleep de