Epidemic of sleep deprivation leads to symptoms of alcoholism (VIDEO)

Lack of sleep may be a factor in a “silent epidemic” similar to the consequences of alcoholism, writes the ew York Post. Almost half of the world’s population does not get enough sleep, and this is more dangerous than it seemed – it can lead to cirrhosis or even liver cancer.

“Over a third of adults do not get the recommended 7-8 hours of sleep each night. This could have the unexpected effect of leading to what experts call a “silent epidemic” because it often has no symptoms – non-alcoholic fatty liver disease.

“A number of studies estimate that fatty liver disease affects between 25% and 33% of the population – almost one in four – but the vast majority have no symptoms at all, especially in the early stages,” said gastroenterologist Ibrahim Hanoune. “Until it’s too late—for example, cirrhosis or liver cancer has already developed.” Some may experience nonspecific symptoms such as fatigue, memory fog, and abdominal pain.

According to nutritionist Christine Kirkpatrick, lack of quality sleep is associated with weight gain, increased hunger and unfavorable blood sugar levels. The risk is especially high for postmenopausal women. To avoid this disease, you need to go to bed and wake up at the same time. Coffee has also shown potential benefits for fatty liver disease.”

Lack of sleep provokes the development of arterial hypertension and heart disease, and increases the risk of heart attacks and strokes.
Insufficient sleep disrupts the release of special peptides responsible for regulating appetite. This increases hunger and leads to obesity.

With short sleep duration and frequent awakenings, testosterone production is disrupted. In people who sleep less than 7-8 hours a day, glucose metabolism in the body is disrupted, which is a risk factor for diabetes. Poor sleep accelerates aging.

Even one night without sleep causes daytime sleepiness, increased irritability, and decreased attention and concentration. If, after a sleepless night, you have some important task ahead, for example, an important meeting, you probably will not be able to achieve your goals.

With a lack of sleep, the exchange of mediators in the brain, including serotonin, is disrupted. This substance controls mood, gives calm and makes us perceive the world as it is. A lack of serotonin during sleep deprivation leads to a gloomy perception of the surrounding reality and can even lead to depression.

Sleep deprivation increases the risk of chronic fatigue syndrome and professional burnout. The result of all this is poor health, low productivity and difficult relationships with others.