Sleep Is A Superpower

by Dr Lindsay Browning 

Regularly getting a good night’s sleep is one of the best things that you can do for your overall health and wellbeing. Many people focus on things like nutrition and exercise when trying to look after themselves, but sleep is really your superpower. 

Sleep is far from a waste of time. It’s a vital time when your body and brain recharge and prepare for the next day. Over time, consistently sacrificing sleep for other things is associated with an increased risk of problems such as dementia, diabetes, obesity, heart disease, stroke, anxiety and depression. In fact, poor sleep (very short or very long sleep duration) is associated with an all-cause increased mortality risk (Cappuccio et al, 2010). 

As well as long-term poor quality sleep being associated with a whole host of negative health consequences, not prioritising sleep can harm your exercise and weight loss goals and impact your immune system. Also, in the short term, one night of sleep deprivation can have measurable consequences the next day, such as an increased risk of car accidents, poorer decision making, irritability, and low mood. If you prioritise your sleep, you’re likely to feel happier and healthier overall.

Posted by Dr Lindsay Browning
7th July 2026

Back to sleep talk