According to data presented by BBC Future, a long rest on weekends can help compensate for the sleep deficit accumulated during the workweek. Scientific studies confirm that this practice can indeed be beneficial.
Sleeping for 10 hours on weekends can create an energy reserve in case it is not possible to fully rest in the future. This approach allows the body to accumulate "extra" hours that can be used in moments when more strength is needed.
During sleep, the brain engages in cleaning and restoring glycogen stores—its main source of energy. The longer this process lasts, the more thorough the "cleaning" is, and the fuller the "fuel tank." Therefore, after a good night's sleep, the brain's abilities function at their best.
The article states: "The 'sleep bank' operates because the brain has the opportunity to expel the byproducts of neuron activity for a longer period."
For example, studies show that soldiers allowed to sleep for 10 hours instead of the standard seven demonstrated higher efficiency, even when they had to function on just three hours of sleep. This is supported by data presented in research dedicated to the concept of "sleep banking."
Similar results were obtained for doctors working night shifts, according to a study conducted at a Miami hospital, as well as for athletes from the University of Bologna.
This method may prove useful before periods when sleepless nights are expected, whether due to a demanding work schedule or a long flight. However, it is important to note that regular sleep deprivation does not allow for the accumulation of sleep hours for the future and does not compensate for the deficit that has already occurred.
