New Study Suggests Optimal Sleep Duration for Longevity and Health

A new study presented by Professor Eitan Friedman, director of the Genetic Institute for Early Detection at Assuta Ramat HaHayal, suggests that the optimal sleep duration for longevity and health is between 6.4 and 7.8 hours per night. This finding contradicts the common belief that eight hours of sleep is ideal.

Professor Friedman explained that the research focused on the "biological clock" rather than directly measuring life expectancy. He stated that both insufficient and excessive sleep can negatively impact quality of life and increase the risk of heart disease, cancer, and premature death from any cause.

While presenting these findings on the "HaOlam HaBoker" program, Friedman emphasized that this range is not a universal rule, as individual sleep needs vary. He highlighted that both the duration and quality of sleep are crucial factors determining our lifespan and overall health.