Trouble Waking Up in the Morning? Staying Up Late May Be Reducing Your Cognitive Abilities, Says New Study
Ushnish Samadder | Unsplash | Jun 03, 2025, 16:00 IST
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The tendency to stay up late is increasing nowadays. Studies show that those who stay awake night after night are experiencing a significant decline in cognitive abilities. Research reveals a clear link between chronic late-night habits and reduced alertness, memory, and deccision-making skills. What else does the study uncover?
Due to the busy pace of daily life, people are getting less time to rest. Many are forced to stay up late because of time constraints, leading to a significant reduction in sleep duration. A recent study has found that staying awake late at night is affecting human cognitive abilities. The lack of proper sleep is not only impacting health but also weakening focus, decision-making, and overall mental sharpness.
Researchers from the University of Groningen in the Netherlands have conducted a 10-year study on human cognition and sleep cycles. The findings are concerning. The study involved around 24,000 people over the age of 40. It was found that those who work late at night experience a 0.8% annual decline in cognitive ability compared to early risers. Interestingly, the decline was more pronounced among the educated population, including students, teachers, and office workers. This suggests that staying up late may have a greater negative impact on brain function among intellectually engaged individuals. The study highlights the importance of healthy sleep habits.
Morning vs Night
Our body’s internal clock naturally encourages us to wake up in the morning and sleep at night. However, in today’s fast-paced world, many are forced to stay up late due to professional demands. Studies show that about 20% of middle-aged adults work at night, and only 7% of them wake up early to start their day. When professional responsibilities prevent early rising, it creates a condition known as "social jet lag." This effect is especially pronounced in those who work late at night.
On the other hand, less-educated individuals tend to avoid the rigid 9-to-5 routine. Instead, they often divide their work throughout the day, allowing for more flexibility. As a result, they are less likely to stay up late and are less affected by sleep disruptions.
The study revealed more concerning insights. Among those who work late at night, two additional habits were identified as catalysts for cognitive decline: smoking and insomnia. Of these, smoking alone contributed to a 19% impact on reduced cognitive ability. Insomnia also had a negative effect on their overall health. Together, these factors led to what is commonly referred to as "brain fog," where individuals experience confusion, forgetfulness, and lack of mental clarity. This condition was found to be more prevalent among night workers with these habits. Alarmingly, such individuals also face a significantly higher risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease. The findings suggest that lifestyle choices combined with irregular sleep patterns can accelerate mental deterioration over time.
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Researchers from the University of Groningen in the Netherlands have conducted a 10-year study on human cognition and sleep cycles. The findings are concerning. The study involved around 24,000 people over the age of 40. It was found that those who work late at night experience a 0.8% annual decline in cognitive ability compared to early risers. Interestingly, the decline was more pronounced among the educated population, including students, teachers, and office workers. This suggests that staying up late may have a greater negative impact on brain function among intellectually engaged individuals. The study highlights the importance of healthy sleep habits.
Sleepless nights may raise your risk of heart disease
( Image credit : IANS )
Morning vs Night
On the other hand, less-educated individuals tend to avoid the rigid 9-to-5 routine. Instead, they often divide their work throughout the day, allowing for more flexibility. As a result, they are less likely to stay up late and are less affected by sleep disruptions.
Sleep Less, Think Less: Your Brain Pays the Price.
( Image credit : IANS )
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