New Study: Getting Less Than 7 Hours Sleep May Shorten Your Life Expectancy
Sleep does more than recharge you. It might be a major key to a longer life. New research makes this connection very clear.
Sleep Outranks Diet and Exercise
Scientists from Oregon Health & Science University analyzed nationwide data. They found a strong link between sleep and how long people live. In fact, sleep duration correlated with lifespan more strongly than diet, physical activity, or loneliness. Only smoking had a bigger impact.Researchers were surprised by the strength of the finding. “I didn’t expect it to be so strongly correlated,” said senior author Andrew McHill.
A Clear Pattern Across the Country
This study is the first to show yearly, state-by-state trends. The team used CDC data from 2019 to 2025. They defined sufficient sleep as at least seven hours per night.
The result was consistent. Counties where people reported less sleep had lower life expectancy. This pattern held true across nearly every state.
Why Sleep Is So Powerful for Health
The study did not prove cause and effect. However, sleep supports critical body functions. For example, it strengthens your heart and immune system. It also helps your brain perform well.Think of sleep as a non-negotiable pillar of health. Therefore, you should prioritize it just like nutrition and exercise. “People really should strive to get seven to nine hours,” McHill advises.Prioritizing sleep is a powerful health choice. Aim for seven to nine hours nightly. This habit supports how you feel today. More importantly, it may help you live a longer, healthier life.
