Good sleep prolongs life by several years.

Research has shown that men who sleep well regularly can live up to five years longer than those who don't, and women can live up to two years. They usually also enjoy better health throughout their lives. However, the quality of sleep is key. The scientists identified the following factors: an ideal duration of seven to eight hours a night, difficulty falling asleep and trouble sleeping no more than twice a week, no sleeping pills, and feeling good after waking up at least five days a week. More research is now needed to determine why men doubled their life expectancy compared to women who had the same quality sleep.