Why sleeping in this summer may be bad for your health

A new study published in *Nature* warns that sleeping excessively—more than eight hours—or insufficiently—fewer than six hours—can harm multiple organ systems, including the brain, heart, lungs, and immune system. Researchers found that both extremes disrupt recovery processes critical for overall health. Dr. Elisa Basora-Rovira, a pediatric pulmonologist and sleep medicine specialist at Texas Health, explained that sleeping less than six hours leads to sleep deprivation, causing irritability, mood swings, and difficulty concentrating. Excessive sleep, particularly over long periods, reduces light exposure, which is essential for melatonin production, and may accelerate biological aging. The study emphasizes that even occasional oversleeping can have lasting effects, while chronic sleep schedules outside the six-to-eight-hour range may contribute to depression over time. Basora-Rovira recommended adhering to the American Academy of Sleep Medicine’s guideline of at least seven hours for adults, with children requiring eight to 16 hours depending on age. To improve sleep quality, she suggested creating an optimal sleep environment by dimming lights before bedtime, using blackout curtains, and wearing blue-light-blocking glasses if using electronic devices late at night. Maintaining a cool room temperature (60–67 degrees Fahrenheit) and exercising during the day—while avoiding late-night alcohol—were also key tips. Basora-Rovira advised keeping a consistent sleep schedule year-round, including during summer, to support the body’s natural circadian rhythm. Disruptions to this rhythm, even seasonally, can negatively impact long-term health and well-being.