December 3, 2025 (Punjab Khabarnama Bureau) : A leading neurologist has issued a strong warning about the long-term effects of inadequate sleep, stressing that consistently sleeping less than seven hours can significantly harm brain health. While occasional late nights may not cause major issues, chronic sleep deprivation can trigger a series of neurological problems that build up silently over time.
Sleep: The Brain’s Repair Window
According to experts, sleep is the time when the brain performs essential maintenance tasks—clearing toxins, repairing cells, processing memories, and stabilising mood and cognitive performance. When this repair cycle is cut short, the brain cannot function at its full capacity.
Key Risks of Sleeping Under 7 Hours
1. Increased Cognitive Decline
Neurologists say that chronic sleep shortages can impair memory, slow thinking, and weaken problem-solving abilities. The brain struggles to consolidate information, leading to forgetfulness and reduced attention span.
2. Higher Risk of Neurodegenerative Disorders
Not getting enough sleep may raise the likelihood of developing conditions like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s in the long run. During deep sleep, the brain removes waste proteins; insufficient sleep weakens this process.
3. Emotional and Mental Health Strain
Poor sleep disrupts the balance of neurotransmitters. This can increase irritability, mood swings, anxiety levels, and overall emotional instability.
4. Impaired Decision-Making
Lack of sleep affects the frontal lobe—responsible for judgment and self-control. Neurologists note that people who sleep less tend to take more risks and make impulsive decisions without realizing it.
5. Reduced Brain Detoxification
The brain’s “glymphatic system” works mainly at night. When sleep duration drops, harmful toxins accumulate, accelerating brain ageing and inflammation.
The Neurologist’s Advice
While lifestyles vary, experts recommend aiming for 7–9 hours of sleep for optimal brain health. Maintaining consistent sleep schedules, reducing late-night screen time, and avoiding heavy meals before bed can support better sleep quality.
Conclusion
The message from neurologists is clear: sleep is not a luxury but a necessity for a healthy brain. Consistently sleeping less than seven hours may not show immediate effects but can lead to serious neurological and emotional consequences over time. Prioritising sleep is one of the simplest yet most powerful steps to protect long-term brain health.
Summary
Sleeping less than seven hours a night can seriously harm brain health, warns a top neurologist. Chronic sleep deprivation disrupts memory, slows thinking, affects emotional stability, and increases the risk of long-term neurological disorders like Alzheimer’s. Experts emphasize that sleep is the brain’s repair time, and inadequate rest prevents toxin removal and weakens cognitive functions. A consistent 7–9 hours of sleep is essential to maintain mental clarity, emotional balance, and long-term brain protection.