Evolution May Be to Blame For Sleep Issues, New Research Discovers

Calgary, Canada: The high-quality nutritional supplements manufacturer Nutriden Inc. has outlined a new study that documents the impact of evolution on sleep patterns as a part of their ongoing awareness campaign on insomnia and other sleep disorders. Poor sleep is often attributed to modern day afflictions such as a sedentary lifestyle and an increase in the usage of smartphones. However, new studies suggest that sleep disturbances may be an ancient survival mechanism that has helped people protect themselves against nocturnal threats.

The research, which was conducted on a group of modern day hunter-gatherers in northern Tanzania, found that frequent sleep disturbances and a difference in the sleep schedules between the young and old ensured that at least one person would be awake at any given point of time during the night. According to Tom Schumluch, CEO of Nutriden Inc., "In light of this new discovery, we now know that human beings are biologically attuned towards a disturbed sleep cycle. Therefore, it is important for people suffering from insomnia and other sleep disorders to get the right medical support for a healthy recovery."

The researchers looked at 33 healthy Hadza men and women to trace their historical sleep patterns via a small watch-like device that they wore on their wrists for 20 days. The study showed that people woke up several times during the night - tossing and turning, getting up to either smoke or relieve themselves, before going back to sleep.

Charlie Nunn, professor of evolutionary anthropology at Duke stated, "of over 220 total hours of observation, there were just 18 minutes when all adults were sound asleep simultaneously. On average, more than a third of the group was alert, or dozing very lightly, at any given time." Another interesting observation was the difference in time of sleep for the different age groups. The young adults and teenagers would stay up late, while the older folks would turn in early - a pattern that can be noticed in western society as well.

It is clear that in the face of mortal danger, sound sleep has been sacrificed to ensure survival - a trait that human beings carry to this day. Considering that a lack of sleep is not conducive to modern day living, people suffering from sleep disturbances and wakefulness at night should look at natural sleep aid options and mindfulness therapies to ensure a good night's sleep. To gain additional insights around insomnia and other sleep disorders, log on to Nutriden Inc's official website or visit its storefront at the Amazon Marketplace.