Bottom Line:
New research has shown that not only can a good night’s sleep keep you mentally sharp, but it can also help you stay healthy by strengthening your immune system. For years physicians have believed that sleep supports the healing process, and now new evidence has been discovered that indicates sleep also plays a role in regulating your immune function. Your immune system is the complex network of cells, tissues, and organs that protect your body from disease, so keeping that system functioning at its highest level is very important to your overall health and wellness.
Why it Matters:
While you’re asleep, your central nervous system is in constant communication with your immune system. Many immune system functions operate on a 24 hour cycle, just like your sleep schedule. In fact, your T-cells, which are some of the most important immune cells, are very, very active while you’re asleep. Everyone may not require the same amount of sleep, but the research is clear: getting a good night’s sleep will help bolster your immune system.
-Your body uses sleep as its time to rest and recover.
-Sleep patterns are tightly linked to your immune function.
-Chronic sleep issues promote inflammation and pain.
Next Steps:
Sleeping well has been proven to be an essential part of staying healthy. If musculoskeletal pain is keeping you from getting a good night’s sleep, give us a call today!
Science Source:
Sleep and immune function. European Journal of Physiology. 2012
