The findings were published in the journal Sleep.
Sign up for our FREE E-Weekly for more coverage like this sent to your inbox!
Researchers from UW Medicine Sleep Center at Harborview Medical Center in Seattle studied the sleep habits of 11 sets of identical twins in “real world” conditions. They used twins as genetics account for 31 to 55 percent of sleep duration, while behavior and environment make up the rest.
“What we show is that the immune system functions best when it gets enough sleep. Seven or more hours of sleep is recommended for optimal health,” said Nathaniel Watson, MD, a neurologist and sleep specialist and the study’s lead author.
More articles on sleep:
Bill Gates, Arianna Huffington and others share tips for getting a better night’s sleep
EarlySense taps American Well for sleep health
Study: Smartphone-based research provides insight into physical activity, sleep patterns
