New Study: Early Birds Are Thinner and Less Stressed Than Night Owls

If you're the type of person who likes to hit the snooze button way too often in the morning, here's some news that might make you consider adjusting your sleep schedule. According to a new study conducted by the Roehampton University, people who wake up early are less likely to be depressed or stressed or become overweight.

Dr. Joerh Hube presented the study at a British Psychological Society conference, Telegraph.co.uk reports. He attributes early risers' productivity to their ability to get tasks done immediately--like house chores and sending their children to school--before going to work. "Maybe morning types are just better suited to this industrial world we are in than late risers," he is quoted as saying.
The researchers asked 1,068 adults about their health, happiness, and sleeping habits through an online survey. The early risers got up at 6:58AM on average, while night owls were more likely to get up at 8:54AM. Both groups slept an hour more on the weekends.

Dr. Huber notes, however, that there are no marked differences between the two groups, and being a night person could suit jobs that require employees to stay late.

But if you've got a job that requires you to be in the office early, it's time to step up your game and reduce instances of tardiness. Sleeping early ensures that you have the right amount of rest, which means you won't need to hit the snooze button in the morning. This makes you feel more rested and ready to face the day--which means you'll be more productive too.