Japanese man sleeps for 30 minutes a day for longevity: Should you try it?

Daisuke Hori, a 40-year-old entrepreneur from Japan, claims to have slept only 30 minutes per day for the last 12 years. While Hori believes this extreme sleep routine has doubled his lifespan and increased his work efficiency, experts warn that this practice may not be as beneficial as it seems.

High-Quality Sleep vs. Long Sleep

Hori argues that people with jobs requiring sustained focus, such as doctors and firefighters, benefit more from high-quality, shorter sleep periods than from longer but fragmented sleep. While there is some truth to the importance of high-quality sleep, the idea that just 30 minutes a day is sufficient is not backed by scientific research. According to Dr. Navneet Sood, a pulmonology and sleep medicine expert, high-quality sleep involves uninterrupted cycles that include both deep sleep and rapid eye movement (REM) sleep, which are crucial for cognitive function, memory, and overall well-being.

The Risks of Extreme Sleep Deprivation

While sleeping for only 30 minutes a day might seem like it allows for more productive waking hours, it can also lead to several negative side effects. Sustained sleep deprivation can impair cognitive function, reaction time, and decision-making abilities. It can also increase the risk of accidents, such as car crashes, and lead to chronic health problems, including type 2 diabetes, as noted in a study published in JAMA Network.

Dr. Sood emphasizes that people with high physical and cognitive demands, like athletes, medical professionals, and students, typically need more sleep to perform at their best. Extreme sleep reduction can be particularly harmful to individuals with medical conditions such as insomnia, anxiety disorders, and cardiovascular diseases. Children, adolescents, and young adults, whose bodies and brains are still developing, also require sufficient sleep for proper growth and cognitive development.

How Much Sleep Do You Need?

The UK's National Health Service recommends that adults sleep for about 7 to 9 hours per night. Sleep is a vital process that allows the brain to process information, consolidate memories, and restore physical and mental energy. REM sleep, in particular, is essential for cognitive functions like memory, learning, and emotional regulation.

Hori’s extreme sleep routine may not be suitable for everyone and could have serious health consequences. Instead, prioritize sleep hygiene by maintaining a regular sleep schedule, creating a comfortable sleep environment, and avoiding stimulants like caffeine close to bedtime. Managing stress, limiting screen time before bed, and engaging in regular physical activity can also improve sleep quality.

In summary, while Hori’s practice is intriguing, it’s essential to recognize that sufficient sleep is crucial for maintaining overall health and well-being.