Most healthy adults need 7 or more hours of sleep per night to maintain optimal health. This recommendation comes from numerous reputable sources, including the Mayo Clinic and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). However, individual sleep needs can vary slightly, with some adults functioning well on 6 hours while others require up to 9 or even 10 hours.
Sleep Requirements by Age Group
The required amount of sleep varies depending on age:
- Infants (0-2 years): 11-14 hours per 24 hours (including naps)
- Toddlers (3-5 years): 10-13 hours per 24 hours (including naps)
- Children (6-12 years): 9-12 hours per 24 hours
- Teenagers (13-18 years): 8-10 hours per 24 hours
- Adults (18+ years): 7 or more hours per night
While 7 hours is often cited as a minimum for adults, getting 7-9 hours is generally considered ideal for most. Numerous studies support the importance of sufficient sleep for overall well-being. Insufficient sleep is linked to various health problems, including increased risk of chronic diseases and diminished cognitive function.
The Mayo Clinic's expert answer on this topic clearly states that adults require 7 or more hours of sleep per night. Further research supports this guideline, indicating that a range of 7-9 hours is often ideal for most adults to function optimally.
