Senior doctor disapproves of actor Ayushmann Khurrana’s idea of sleeping for 6 hours, Here's why

Bollywood actor Ayushmann Khurrana recently said that he sometimes manages to get just six hours’ sleep because of his busy schedule. (Picture Credit: Instagram/@ayushmannk)

A common belief among people is that their body can manage even on six hours of sleep and more waking time, which are required due to the fast-paced life. Yet, experts caution that regularly sleeping less than a certain number of hours can be detrimental to health. Knowing these impacts is critical for your continued good health.

Bollywood actor Ayushmann Khurrana recently said that he sometimes manages to get just six hours’ sleep because of his busy schedule. That might hit home for many working professionals, students and parents who are balancing more work and obligations than they can handle in each day, but health experts say regularly sleeping six hours a night isn’t necessarily good for the body. Sleep is a basic biological function that, like eating and breathing, the body requires for repair of tissues, regulation of hormone levels, immune system functioning and brain performance.

“Adults in general require 7–9 hours of sleep for their body to function properly,” informs Dr. Rajat Sharma, Senior Internal Medicine Specialist. Only getting six hours also may feel somewhat manageable at first, but on an ongoing basis can cause changes in metabolism and immunity; elevate inflammation; alter emotional stability. In modern life, sleep has fallen low on our list of priorities—considered an inconvenience, or worse—an opportunity to ‘get ahead’ in work and play.

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“In a culture where celebrities dictate lifestyle habits, it’s crucial to recognize that every body is unique and health decisions should rely on science not timing,” says the Dr. and rules down on why six hours of sleep is not enough and what it means for your health.

Impacts Brain Function and Focus

By shortening your slumber, you inhibit the brain’s ability to focus, take in information and make decisions, Dr. Sharma says. Losing six hours of sleep makes you drowsy, slows down reaction time and diminishes problem-solving abilities. As time progresses, it still makes you more irritable and oversensitive.

Weakens Immunity

The damage to the immune system is repaired and regenerated as we sleep Ibid. After only 6 hours of sleep, the body creates fewer antibodies, leaving you more susceptible to infections and seasonal illnesses, as well as reduced recovery. Poor sleep also raises inflammation, which in turn lowers immunity.

Increases the Risk of Weight Gain and Metabolic Problems

Short sleep throws off hormones such as ghrelin and leptin that regulate appetite and fullness. This imbalance makes sugary or high-calorie foods taste even more appealing and causes overeating – leading to weight gain, says Dr. Sharma. It also influences insulin sensitivity, increasing the chances of prediabetes and metabolic syndrome.

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Affects Heart Health

Six hours of sleep only adds stress to the cardiovascular system. It raises blood pressure, increases heart rate variability and adds to inflammation — all of which contribute to heart disease. They have also been associated with increased risk of hypertension, cardiac attack. Short-term deprivation of sleep has been associated with an increase in sympathetic activity in healthy young men, elderly individuals and patients hospitalized for cardiovascular disease.

Emotional Stability and Mental Well Being suffers.

Not enough sleep can throw off hormones that regulate mood. Those who sleep less frequently report feeling anxious, moody or mentally exhausted. 6-hour sleepers accumulate stress and are more susceptible to burnout over time.

Long-Term Sleep Debt Is Dangerous

Dr Sharma emphasizes that it’s not possible for the body to “catch up” on lost sleep entirely. This chronic sleep debt results in long-term health issues that range from fatigue, memory loss, hormone imbalance, and premature aging.

FAQs on importance of sleep:

1. Why is sleep so important for health?

Sleep supports brain function, immune strength, hormone balance, and tissue repair, making it essential for overall well-being.

2. How much sleep do adults need?

Most adults need 7–9 hours per night for optimal mental and physical performance.

3. What happens if I don’t get enough sleep?

Chronic sleep loss can lead to poor concentration, mood changes, weakened immunity, weight gain, and higher risk of chronic diseases.

4. Can good sleep improve mental health?

Yes. Quality sleep helps regulate mood, stress, memory, and emotional resilience.

5. Does sleep affect weight and metabolism?

Absolutely. Lack of sleep disrupts hunger hormones, increases cravings, and slows metabolism, making weight management harder.

Disclaimer: This article, including health and fitness advice, only provides generic information. Don’t treat it as a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist for specific health diagnosis.