Study demystifies common sleep myths

MINNEAPOLIS – Many of us are used to sleeping less, but a new NYU study might convince you to change your sleep patterns.

The report says that many adults believe in false assumptions about sleep.

1. How many hours should I receive?

The first big myth is that you only need five hours of sleep or less. But the CDC says adults need at least 7 hours of sleep each night.

If you sleep less, you are more susceptible to health problems, such as heart disease.

2. Will I not adapt to sleep a little?

Another myth debunked in the report is that eventually your body will get used to less sleep. NYU's research explains that our body has to go through all phases of sleep and that deeper sleep releases hormones that keep our brain and body functioning.

3. Does snoring mean that I sleep better?

Can not stand snoring? This can be annoying while you sleep, but snoring can also be a sign of serious health problems.

Snoring is a symptom of sleep apnea, where your breathing stops repeatedly throughout the night. According to the study, this can cause a loss of sleep and an extra feeling of exhaustion during the day.

4. Should I stay in bed for hours trying to fall asleep?

Researchers say it's actually a bad strategy when you try to close your eyes. You will start to associate your bed with insomnia, so an expert suggests you do a blind task to relax your brain.