Overview

• Researchers found that just three nights of restricted sleep, around four hours per night, elevated blood markers linked to inflammation and heart disease.
• The study involved 16 healthy young men with normal sleep habits, who were monitored in a controlled sleep laboratory environment.
• Exercise provided some benefits but did not fully offset the negative cardiovascular effects of sleep deprivation, as inflammatory markers remained elevated.
• The findings highlight the importance of consistent sleep patterns for heart health, even for young and otherwise healthy individuals.
• Experts recommend practicing good sleep hygiene, including maintaining a regular bedtime, avoiding late caffeine or alcohol, and minimizing screen time before sleep.