Sleep is often underestimated in the scheme of things. We are overworked, overstressed and overloaded with tasks, responsibilities and aspirations. But to achieve even a fraction of our potential, it is necessary to be well rested.
You don't have to be a scientist or work for http://www.simonlyexpert.co.uk/ to realise that even a night's sleep lost can make a huge difference to your capacity to function the next day. So what is the science behind sleep? Sleep rejuvenates the brain and allows it to store new things. Without sleep, the brain would not be able to cope with new information.
Besides the more immediate effects of lack of sleep, such as falling asleep at the wheel or into a bowl of soup at lunch, chronic sleep deprivation can cause more long term and serious problems. Sleep deprivation is associated with increased risk of cardiovascular disease, hormonal problems and even loss of immunity.
Contrary to the popular opinion that everybody needs eight hours of sleep, studies have shown that there is no general minimum requirement for sleep. Everybody has their own bio clock so the amount of sleep needed can differ from person to person.
Having said this, the question of how long to sleep for without being deprived remains. The answer lies in trial and error. For most people, eight hours of sleep is usually more than enough. If you feel sleepy during the day have a dip in your energy levels post lunch, you probably need more sleep at night!