The Health Benefits of Sleep
The health benefits of sleep are numerous and wide-ranging. It’s a vital component of a healthy life for people of all ages, from babies and children to adults and older individuals. Sleep deprivation can lead to a variety of short-term problems, such as an inability to focus and mood changes (like being more irritable or snappy). Over time, the lack of adequate sleep can affect your health by increasing your risk for heart disease, high blood pressure and weakened immune systems. Poor sleep can even impact your weight and lead to diabetes, with studies showing that people who get too little sleep have higher rates of obesity and a greater risk for insulin resistance.
It can also affect how you behave and your mental health, with research suggesting that people who get less sleep have more trouble regulating their emotions, and are more likely to have anxiety or depression. Getting a good night’s sleep can improve how you think, helping you to build strong relationships and deal with stress.
Scientists haven’t completely figured out what exactly happens during sleep, but they do know that it involves many different biological processes and has an important role in balancing our daily functioning. This means that we don’t simply “power down” during sleep; rather, our brains are actively working to help us function properly when we wake up.
The restorative theory of sleep suggests that sleeping is essential for restoring and replenishing cells used or damaged during the day. It also helps us feel well-rested and refreshed when we wake up. During non-REM sleep, the body’s core functions slow down, with the heart rate reaching its lowest during stages two and three of SWS (Slow Wave Sleep). During REM sleep, the brain produces growth hormones that support development in children and adolescents, as well as proteins that repair cells and tissues in people of all ages. The body also releases chemicals called cytokines, which help fight off infections.
There are several theories of why we sleep, including energy conservation and the brain plasticity theory. The energy conservation theory is based on evolution, with researchers suggesting that sleeping through the night allows the body to conserve resources and stockpile food for the daytime. The brain plasticity theory is based on the fact that during sleep, the brain can reorganize its neurons, and that this process is critical for proper memory function.
During a normal night of sleep, your brain goes through four or five sleep cycles. Each cycle includes a combination of REM and non-REM sleep. The REM sleep stage is associated with the most intense activity in the brain, and it’s during this time that your memories are strengthened and consolidated into long-term storage.
If you’re struggling with chronic sleep issues, talk to your doctor or a psychologist. The right treatment can help you re-balance your sleep-wake rhythms, giving you the sleep you need to function optimally. In the meantime, try to stick to a regular bedtime routine and avoid activities that can disrupt your sleep, like using bright lights or electronics near your bed.