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Sleep at least 7 hours a night as an adult

Adults ages 18–60 should sleep 7 or more hours each night; enough sleep can lower the risk of type 2 diabetes, heart disease, high blood pressure, and stroke.

Costsfree · ongoing · one habit change
Getslarge health benefit
EvidenceA
Last checked

What it costs

Time to protect a regular nightly sleep period and build habits that support good sleep.

What you get

CDC’s sleep table says adults ages 18–60 need “7 or more hours.” CDC also says enough sleep can “Lower your risk of chronic conditions like: Type 2 diabetes. Heart disease. High blood pressure. Stroke.”

Notes

The recommendation changes with age: CDC lists 7–9 hours for adults ages 61–64 and 7–8 hours for adults ages 65 years and older. CDC advises talking to a healthcare provider if you regularly have problems sleeping or notice signs of a sleep disorder.

Sources