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The NHS recommends that teenagers have 8 to 10 hours of sleep a day to maintain the correct work/sleep balance for good health - Edexcel - GCSE Physical Education - Question 8 - 2022 - Paper 1
Question 8
The NHS recommends that teenagers have 8 to 10 hours of sleep a day to maintain the correct work/sleep balance for good health. Explain why a lack of sleep can have... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:The NHS recommends that teenagers have 8 to 10 hours of sleep a day to maintain the correct work/sleep balance for good health - Edexcel - GCSE Physical Education - Question 8 - 2022 - Paper 1
Step 1
Negative impact of lack of sleep on physical health
Answer
A lack of sleep can lead to an increased risk of several physical health issues. For example, insufficient sleep is linked to conditions such as heart disease and high blood pressure, as the body does not have enough time to recover and restore itself from daily stresses. This can lead to chronic conditions due to heightened stress and inflammation levels.
Moreover, inadequate sleep affects the immune system, making the body more vulnerable to infections and illnesses. It may also contribute to weight gain and obesity, as a lack of sleep can disrupt hormones that regulate appetite, leading to overeating.
Step 2
Explanation why adequate sleep is required
Answer
Adequate sleep is essential for physical health because it allows the body to repair and rejuvenate itself. During sleep, the body undergoes processes such as tissue growth and muscle repair, and it strengthens the immune response. Therefore, without sufficient sleep, these systems struggle to function properly, leading to long-term health issues.