03.03.2025 14:40
A new study conducted by Chengdu University in China has indicated that getting a few extra hours of sleep on weekends can significantly benefit our health. The research, which involved 327,000 participants, showed that for those who do not get enough sleep during the week, compensatory sleep on weekends can reduce the risk of depression.
A new study conducted at Chengdu University in China has revealed that getting a few extra hours of sleep on weekends can significantly benefit our health. The study, which involved 327,000 people, showed that for those who cannot get enough sleep during the week due to work life, compensatory sleep on weekends seriously reduces the risk of depression.
According to the research, those who stay in bed for an extra hour on Saturdays and Sundays have a 30% lower risk of depression, while those who sleep an extra one to two hours see this rate rise to as much as 62%. Scientists state that additional sleep of up to two hours regulates the body's hormones and reduces stress, while sleeping more than two hours does not provide additional benefits.
The research team stated, "We found a strong relationship between weekend compensatory sleep and the reduction of depression risk. This is particularly effective in alleviating the negative effects of sleep deprivation during workdays," they explained.
Experts believe that extra sleep is particularly beneficial for individuals aged 40-60 and for men. It is estimated that additional sleep in men has a protective effect against depression by increasing testosterone levels.
It is a well-known fact that sleep deprivation has negative effects such as depression, weight gain, and shortened lifespan. The study from Chengdu University offers a practical solution for the modern individual who works intensively during the week and has disrupted sleep patterns: sleeping a little more on weekends.
Experts also note that sleeping in increases the duration of REM sleep, during which the body performs cellular repair, positively reflecting on overall health.
However, researchers also warn that sleeping for too long can lead to different health issues. Another study published in the Journal of the American Geriatrics Society shows that staying in bed too long after 10 PM may increase the risk of dementia.