How genetics determine our sleeping patterns
Have you ever wondered why some of your friends seem to function on four hours sleep, whereas you always feel tired if you get any less than 10? Or why certain just seem perpetually sluggish, no matter how much sleep they seem to get?
Well, it turns out genetics might be a huge determining factor.
Recent research has suggested that while a number of factors (like sunlight) play into our sleeping patterns, we also possess ‘clock genes’ that play a huge role in determining our individual circadian rhythm and how much sleep we need to function effectively.
Dr Dev Banerjee from Integrated Sleep Health told The Huffington Post, “Naturally, in simple terms, when it's dark, we tend to be intrinsically sleepy. When the sun is out we're more awake. We have something called sleep clock genes which determine your circadian rhythm. Your circadian rhythm typically runs on a cycle of 24 hours, though it's possible to have genes where the clock runs a little bit slower, and isn't quite 24 hours on the mark. These people tend to be night owls. Those whose clock is spot-on on time tend to be more of an early bird.”
So the next time you get called out for sleeping in, use genetics as your excuse!
Are you a night owl, or an early bird? Have you always been this way, or is this something that’s evolved over time? Let us know in the comments!
Related links:
Why you should never make your bed
10 science-backed ways to help you sleep