Sleep Beats Diet and Exercise for Longevity, New Study Reveals

URGENT UPDATE: A groundbreaking study has revealed that getting enough sleep is more crucial for longevity than diet or exercise. Researchers from Oregon Health & Science University analyzed survey data from 2019 to 2025, confirming that sleeping less than seven hours per night significantly shortens life expectancy—more than poor diet or lack of exercise.

The findings, published in the journal Sleep Advances, highlight a startling correlation: insufficient sleep has a stronger link to lower life expectancy than diet or exercise. Only smoking poses a greater risk. Sleep physiologist Andrew McHill stated, “I didn’t expect [insufficient sleep] to be so strongly correlated to life expectancy. People really should strive to get seven to nine hours of sleep if at all possible.”

This comprehensive study controlled for various factors impacting longevity, including physical inactivity, employment status, and education levels, solidifying the connection between short sleep duration and decreased lifespan. While the research is observational and cannot definitively prove causation, the results were striking enough to surprise even the scientists involved.

The implications are significant. Individuals often underestimate the effects of sleep deprivation, mistakenly attributing symptoms to less critical causes. Losing just one night of quality sleep can impair the immune system and disrupt cognitive functions. Over time, McHill’s research links poor sleep habits to serious health issues, including diabetes and obesity, which further complicate overall health.

This study shifts the narrative surrounding health and longevity. Although diet and exercise remain important, the revelation that sleep may be an even stronger predictor of health outcomes reshapes how we view our nightly routines. The decision to prioritize sleep over late-night activities is now underscored as a vital health imperative.

Fortunately, sleep habits can be improved. The American Academy of Sleep Medicine and the Sleep Research Society recommend that adults aim for at least seven hours of sleep each night. Emerging evidence also suggests that individuals may regain some health benefits by catching up on sleep during the weekends, offering hope for those struggling to balance modern life’s demands.

McHill emphasized the dual benefits of adequate sleep: “Getting a good night’s sleep will improve how you feel but also how long you live.” This intuitive insight is now backed by clear data, making it essential for individuals to reevaluate their nighttime habits.

This study serves as a powerful reminder: if you’ve been putting off sleep for another episode or important email, now is the time to reconsider. Prioritizing sleep could be the key to a longer, healthier life.

As this research gains traction, it’s crucial for individuals to share this information widely. The message is clear: Sleep is not just a luxury; it’s a necessity for longevity. As you prepare for bed tonight, consider this your cue to disconnect, unwind, and embrace the power of sleep. Night, night.