Sleep regularity (going to bed and waking up at the same times) could be a more determining factor for long-term health and the reduction of mortality than the total duration of sleep itself.

noli's read

Layne Norton relies on recent and robust data to support his point. The study published in 'Sleep' (PMID: 37738616), using accelerometers on a large cohort, effectively confirms a strong correlation between sleep regularity and a reduction in all-cause mortality risk. He also cites research on cardiovascular risks, highlighting that sleep variability is an underestimated health marker. It is crucial to note, however, as the creator does, that these studies are observational: they show an association but do not prove a direct causal link. It is possible that sleep irregularity is a symptom of a stressful lifestyle or other underlying health factors rather than the sole cause of the observed issues. The message is overall balanced because it does not deny the importance of sleep duration, but invites consideration of consistency as a complementary pillar.

the sources

1. 1Windred DP, Burns AC, Lane JM, et al. 2023
2. 2Roenneberg T. 2023
3. 3Watson NF et al. (AASM & Sleep Research Society) 2015
4. 4Hirshkowitz M et al. (National Sleep Foundation) 2015