Study Reveals Reasons Behind Shorter Sleep in Females
New Delhi: A recent study has suggested that biological factors, alongside caregiving roles, may significantly influence why women tend to sleep less than men. Published in the journal Scientific Reports, the research highlights notable differences in sleep patterns between males and females, suggesting that these disparities may stem from intrinsic biological mechanisms.
The study revealed that women not only sleep for shorter durations but also experience more fragmented and less restorative sleep compared to men. While caregiving responsibilities have long been considered the primary reason for these sleep discrepancies, the findings suggest that biological factors may play a larger role than previously recognized.
The study, conducted on 267 C57BL/6J mice using specialized cages equipped with ultra-sensitive movement sensors, observed that male mice slept approximately 670 minutes over a 24-hour period, an hour more than females. This additional sleep was primarily non-rapid eye movement (NREM) sleep, the restorative phase where the body repairs itself. Female mice, on the other hand, exhibited shorter and more fragmented sleep episodes.
Interestingly, the research noted similar sex-based sleep differences across various species, including fruit flies, rats, zebrafish, and birds. This consistency across species points to a potential evolutionary basis for these patterns.
The study is part of a growing body of research on sleep, which has revealed the significant impact of insufficient sleep on health. Poor sleep has been linked to increased risks of diseases such as diabetes, obesity, Alzheimer’s, and immune disorders. The reciprocal effect—how these conditions influence sleep—is also a critical area of investigation.
The researchers emphasized the need for further studies to delve deeper into the biological mechanisms underlying these sex-based sleep differences. A better understanding of these factors could lead to improved, tailored sleep treatments for both men and women.
This research sheds new light on the complex interplay between biology, behavior, and sleep, offering valuable insights into sleep health.
Nidhi Srivastava is a dietician. She holds a post-graduate degree in Nutrition and Dietetics from MRIIRS. With a profound passion for utilizing nutrition and lifestyle modifications to manage diseases, she is dedicated to advancing the field through rigorous research and fact-checking. Her expertise lies in evidence-based practice, ensuring the highest standards of dietary health and wellness.