😴 The growing sleep-loss epidemic

Today's OneChart

We all need to rest and recover. That means counting sheep.

But why is it that our sleep is deeper some nights than others?

A couple wanted to find out. The pair spent two years tracking data on which choices made them sleep well or poorly.

Afterwards, they shared the results on Reddit.

As you can see below, fasting three hours before bedtime and going to sleep before 11 p.m. had the most positive impact on both of their sleep schedules.

Each individual tracked their pre-sleep choices separately.

In turn, the data comparison provides additional insights, each of which emphasizes how personal preferences affect outcomes and that there isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution.

This data could show that she is the one hogging the blanket. 😉

• Him: Shared bed with partner: -25%
• Her: Shared bed with partner: +7%

Why is this generation defining?

The chart demonstrates how vulnerable our sleep rhythms are to external conditions and personal behaviors. These circumstances have a dramatic impact on our overall wellbeings.

It’s no secret that getting enough sleep is important for our physical and mental health.

People with sleep deficiencies have a greater risk of health complications, such as heart disease, kidney disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, stroke, and obesity.

However — and here comes the caveat — humans appear to be sleeping worse than ever before.

Currently, those of us living in many Western countries are battling a sleep loss epidemic.

Humans need at least seven hours of sleep per night in order to function properly. Despite this, 65% of Americans report sleeping less, according to Gallup’s State of Sleep in America 2022 Report.

This is a historical high, given that:

• In 1942, only 11% of people slept six hours or less per night and
• By 1990, this figure had risen to 42%.

The sleep industry is growing rapidly

From a health perspective, these statistics are worrisome. While this is the case, this data presents significant opportunities for business.

As people are hindered from their ability to get a good night’s rest, the sleep industry is booming.

Interestingly, there’s double the search volume for “sleep app” over “meditation app.”

The next mindfulness frontier could be sleep.