Stress and sleep loss: 7 signs your body is not getting enough rest

Health hazards of lack of sleep: It can lead to high blood pressure levels, which increases the risk of hypertension and cardiovascular disease

Staying up late into the night, whether it is binge-watching your favourite OTT series, overthinking a problem, or catching up on work, has become a common habit for many. However, these nocturnal activities can wreak havoc on your sleep cycle and your health. Not only does it disrupt your body's natural rhythm, but it can also lead to a host of negative consequences.

Discover why staying up late can be detrimental. Here are seven ways your body reacts when you don't sleep on time:

Poor cognitive function: Lack of sleep can damage cognitive function and affect your memory, concentration, and decision-making abilities. This is because sleep plays a vital role in consolidating memories and processing information. When you do not get enough sleep, your brain's ability to function optimally is compromised, leading to decreased productivity and performance.

Irritability and mood swings: Sleep deprivation can also take a toll on your mood, causing irritability, mood swings, and increased stress levels. This is due to alterations in neurotransmitter levels in the brain, particularly serotonin and dopamine, which regulate mood and emotions. Chronic sleep deprivation can contribute to the development of mood disorders such as depression and anxiety.

Weak immunity: Adequate sleep is important for a healthy immune system, as it allows the body to produce cytokines, proteins that help fight off infections and inflammation. By not sleeping well you compromise your  immune system. This makes you more susceptible to illnesses such as colds, flu, and infections.

Leads to weight gain: Sleep deprivation can disrupt the balance of hormones that regulate appetite and metabolism, such as leptin and ghrelin. As a result, you may experience increased cravings for high-calorie foods, reduced feelings of fullness, and weight gain over time. Chronic sleep deprivation has been linked to an increased risk of obesity and metabolic disorders like diabetes.

Elevated blood pressure: Lack of sleep can lead to high blood pressure levels. It increases the risk of hypertension and cardiovascular disease. During sleep, the body undergoes repair and regeneration processes that help maintain cardiovascular health. When sleep is insufficient or of poor quality, these processes are disrupted, leading to increased blood pressure and cardiovascular strain.

Impaired motor skills: Sleep deprivation can impair motor skills and coordination, thus increasing the risk of accidents and injuries. It happens because sleep is important in restoring and replenishing the body's energy stores, which are essential for optimal physical performance.

High risk of chronic health conditions: Chronic sleep deprivation has been linked to an increased risk of developing a range of chronic health conditions, including diabetes, heart disease, stroke, and certain types of cancer.