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Think You Can Go Without Sleep? Think Again

Updated 6/19/2020
Think You Can Go Without Sleep? Think Again
Even a week of too little sleep is enough to increase the chance of a host of negative health problems. Learn what’s at stake—and how to catch more zzz’s.

We all know we should get more sleep. But if you think that the only downside to too little sleep is being a little tired at work the next day (which, obviously, can be remedied with coffee), then you might want to learn a bit more about how your body responds to a lack of zzz’s.

In fact, there are a whole slew of other health issues that accompany a lack of sleep, from unhealthy cravings to an increased risk of stroke to higher anxiety (yikes!).

Read the infographic below to get a sense of how little to no sleep impacts your body and then, if you’re part of the tired masses, check out some of our simple solutions and expert tricks for getting a little extra shut-eye.


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Before joining The Muse, Sarah worked in social business innovation for Virgin Unite in London, strategy and innovation at Market Gravity, sustainability research in the Dominican Republic, and business development for a NYC startup. Wrapping up her time at Columbia University, she’s headed to McKinsey & Company after graduation. Say hi on Twitter @sarahlichang.
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