A critical factor that predicts lifespan better than diet or physical activity.

 According to new research, the "gain" of staying up late could cost you years, as insufficient sleep is linked to a lower life expectancy.

The author notes that insufficient sleep has long been linked to health problems and a shorter lifespan, but recent research shows that getting enough sleep is more strongly linked to longevity than diet or exercise, which are often considered key to extending lifespan. ( Science Alert)

Researchers from Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU) analyzed survey data from the United States from 2019 to 2025.

They compared average life expectancy with the amount of sleep participants reported and considered less than seven hours of sleep per night as "insufficient".

Even after accounting for other factors affecting lifespan (such as lack of physical activity, employment status, and education level), the link between sleep deprivation and shorter life expectancy remained strong. The only factor with a greater impact was smoking.

"I didn't expect sleep deprivation to be so strongly linked to longevity. We always knew sleep was important, but this study emphasizes it even more: people should try to get seven to nine hours of sleep if possible," said researcher Andrew McHill.

Because it is an observational study, it cannot prove that insufficient sleep shortens your lifespan by months or years, nor can it unravel the complex interactions between sleep, nutrition, and physical activity. However, the results suggest that the amount of sleep you get each night is an important indicator of long-term health.

Sufficient sleep is essential for almost every aspect of health: even a single night of sleeplessness can affect brain function and the immune system.

Researchers have identified obesity and diabetes as two conditions closely linked to insufficient sleep, which can shorten lifespan.

"It's intuitive and logical, but it was still surprising that it was so clearly seen in all the models. Good sleep not only improves how you feel, but it also increases how long you live," McHill added.

The good news is that we can improve our sleep patterns within the limitations imposed by work and family responsibilities.

Avoiding constant phone calls late into the night or doing some yoga occasionally can be beneficial.

The American Academy of Sleep Medicine and the Sleep Research Association recommend at least seven hours of sleep per night; however, some evidence suggests that some of the lost hours can be made up on weekends.

"This study shows that we should prioritize sleep as much as nutrition and exercise. Good sleep not only makes you feel better, but it also helps you live longer," said McHill.

The study was published in the journal Sleep Advances.