Regular sleep timing improves longevity, study finds

Researchers have found that going to bed before 1 AM is important for better aging, regardless of whether you are a night owl or an early bird. A recent review shows that being out of sync with your body clock can make you feel more tired than simply not getting enough sleep. In a podcast by gut health company ZOE, Bryan Johnson discussed his experiences with sleep during life-extension studies. He emphasized the importance of following a consistent bedtime, even to the minute. Research from 2024 indicates that sticking to a regular sleep schedule is a stronger predictor of longevity than the total hours of sleep. The study analyzed data from over half a million people aged 40-69 in the UK Biobank. It revealed that individuals with regular sleep patterns had a 20% to 48% lower risk of dying from any cause. Irregular sleep habits were linked to a higher risk of mortality, particularly from cancer. While the researchers could not prove that irregular sleep directly causes premature death, they suggested it might relate to disruptions in the body's natural clock. This hints that maintaining a regular sleep schedule could be more beneficial for health than simply focusing on sleep duration.