Workers are risking their health by suffering a lack of sleep, according to a new report.
Researchers at the University of Wisconsin-Madison found that sleeping for four hours each night for five consecutive days is as bad for the brain as acute total sleep deprivation.
It also warned that trying to catch up with sleep at the weekend might not be enough to negate the effects of low levels of shut-eye during the week.
Furthermore, the study, which was carried out using rats, found that they had a higher slow wave activity (SWA) after being awake for 20 hours.
"High SWA levels during periods of both sleeping and waking signal that you need to go to sleep. Sleep restriction can also increase resistance to insulin, leading to a risk of diabetes," said Dr Chiara Cirelli, leader of the research.
According to professor Jim Horne, speaking to the Daily Telegraph, a hot bath and a long walk is the best way to get a good night's sleep.