BY: VALERIE ANN DISMAYA

Sleep deprivation does not just cause drowsiness and fatigue—it can have serious effects on the body, including stress, lack of focus, and mood swings.

But did you know that it can also disrupt hormone levels?

Many people, especially students and workers, stay up late due to school, work, or excessive gadget use.

However, experts warn that a lack of sleep weakens the immune system and can lead to hormonal imbalances, particularly among adolescents aged 10 to 18.

During these years, teenagers experience biological changes that affect their sleep patterns.

According to researchers, their body clock naturally shifts, making them more inclined to sleep later, often past midnight.

Unfortunately, early school schedules prevent them from getting the recommended eight to ten hours of sleep per night.

The effects of sleep deprivation have been studied since the 20th century.

Researchers observed that people who frequently lack sleep tend to think more slowly and get sick more often.

In the 1950s, scientists discovered the rapid eye movement (REM) sleep stage, which plays a key role in memory retention and brain function.

More recent studies have linked sleep deprivation to mental health issues such as anxiety and depression.

Additionally, experts found that chronic lack of sleep contributes to weight gain.

Sleep-deprived individuals produce more ghrelin, the hormone that stimulates hunger, while their levels of leptin, the hormone responsible for feeling full, decrease.

As a result, they are more likely to overeat and develop conditions like obesity and diabetes.

To combat sleep deprivation, experts recommend reducing gadget use at least three hours before bedtime, avoiding caffeine in the evening, and maintaining a consistent sleep schedule.

Establishing bedtime routines, such as brushing teeth and avoiding heavy meals at night, can also promote better sleep.

So, before pulling an all-nighter, ask yourself: is losing sleep really worth risking your health?