How much sleep do you need based on your age?

Sleep is essential for the growth and development of infants, toddlers and teens. It is also important because it allows the body and mind to recharge and prepare for the next day.

Although many studies determine 7 hours as the sufficient amount of sleep to maintain health, this may not apply to everyone depending on several factors, including age.

Young children who are still growing and developing need to go to bed earlier each night to get the most rest and benefits, while adults can get by with a few hours of sleep with little effect.

According to experts, healthy adults typically need about 7 to 9 hours of sleep. However, age, health, and personal circumstances affect how much sleep we need, and some people naturally sleep more than others.

Teenagers, children and infants need more sleep because they are still growing, but that also varies. 

Lack of sleep can cause a range of problems, from mood swings to more serious health conditions.

Recommended hours of sleep by age group:

- Infant from 4 to 12 months: between 12 and 16 hours (including naps).

- Toddler 1-2 years old: between 11 and 14 hours (including naps).

- Preschool age 3-5 years: about 10 to 13 hours (including naps).

- School age from 6 to 12 years: between 9 and 12 hours.

- Adolescents aged 13 to 18 years: between 8 and 10 hours.

- Adults 18 years and older: about 7 hours of sleep or more

There are a number of factors that determine how much sleep and recovery your body needs, such as activity level and overall health. A person who does not expend a lot of energy will not need as much sleep as a person who is physically active, even if they are the same age.

If you feel that seven hours is not enough for you, try sleeping for eight or nine hours. 

Health and mental health conditions can contribute to sleep deprivation for many people. These can include depression, anxiety, obstructive sleep apnea, and chronic pain.

Long-term sleep deprivation can further negatively impact your health and lead to problems such as lowered immunity, which can make it harder for your body to fight off infections. You can also experience conditions such as high cortisol.

This can contribute to high blood pressure and other health concerns, increased appetite and cravings for sugar and carbohydrates, and weight gain.