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Sleeping only 5 hours a night is common, but is it truly enough? Discover the difference between natural short sleepers and chronic sleep deprivation, plus tips to assess your own sleep needs for better health and alertness.

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Many people boast about getting just 5 hours of sleep and still feeling fine. But is this really enough? The truth is subtle and hinges on whether you are a natural short sleeper or simply experiencing sleep deprivation.

Natural short sleepers are rare individuals whose bodies genuinely require less than the standard 7-9 hours recommended for adults. Thanks to unique genetic traits, they wake up refreshed and alert after only a few hours of rest. These people can function well without the negative effects commonly linked with limited sleep.

For most of us, however, sleeping only 5 hours regularly leads to a state of chronic sleep deprivation. Unlike occasional tiredness, persistent short sleep impairs memory, mood, immune function, and even increases the risk of serious health issues such as heart disease and diabetes.

How can you tell which category you fall into? A natural short sleeper generally feels alert throughout the day, maintains good concentration, and doesn’t crave naps or caffeine excessively. Sleep-deprived individuals, meanwhile, struggle to stay awake, have difficulty focusing, and may feel irritable or anxious.

Another hallmark of deprivation is the “sleep debt” effect. Even if you think 5 hours is enough, your body may try to catch up with longer sleep on weekends or naps. This “catch-up” sleep is a sign that your system is not genuinely satisfied with reduced rest.

Listening to your body is key. Feeling refreshed, mentally sharp, and physically energised is the real test of whether your sleep duration is sufficient. Many underestimate how much more rested they could feel by adding even an hour or two.

At Dozywave, we recognise the importance of personalised sleep solutions. Whether you need help optimising your sleep quality or adjusting your sleep schedule, our range of products aims to support you in achieving deep, rejuvenating slumber — because every individual deserves the rest they need to thrive.

Imagine finishing a hearty lunch and suddenly struggling to keep your eyes open at your desk. You’re not alone — many people experience a wave of tiredness after eating. This common post-meal drowsiness can derail productivity and leave you feeling sluggish for the rest of the day.

The good news is that simple changes to what and how you eat can help keep that afternoon slump at bay. It starts with understanding how different foods affect your energy levels. Meals rich in refined carbohydrates, like white bread or sugary snacks, cause rapid spikes in blood sugar followed by crashes, which often lead to tiredness. Incorporating protein and healthy fats into your meal slows digestion and provides a steadier energy supply.

Portion size also matters. Overeating can divert more blood flow to your digestive system, leaving your brain starved of oxygen and nutrients, hence the sleepy feeling. Try eating moderate portions and consider splitting large meals into smaller, frequent ones to maintain alertness.

Hydration often gets overlooked but plays a key role too. Even mild dehydration can make you feel fatigued. Drinking water before and after meals supports digestion and helps sustain energy.

Another handy trick is light physical activity after eating. A short walk stimulates circulation and aids digestion without causing tiredness. Avoid immediately sinking into a chair or lying down, which can exacerbate drowsiness.

Lastly, good sleep habits at night reduce overall daytime sleepiness. Prioritising quality rest ensures you’re less prone to post-meal tiredness and keeps your energy consistent throughout the day.

At Dozywave, we are passionate about helping you maintain energy and achieve the kind of restful sleep that leaves you feeling refreshed and alert. Our carefully designed sleep products support your natural rhythms, so you can say goodbye to afternoon slumps and hello to vibrant days.