Nine Surprising Benefits Of Sleep
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By Robin Westen
Even though for many of us a good night’s sleep is only a dream come true, there’s medical evidence proving we should do everything we can to achieve it. Here are nine excellent reasons for catching the recommended seven hours of solid zzz’s. Sleep...:
Strengthens the Heart
Lack of sleep is associated with an increase in blood pressure and cholesterol. Both conditions are risk factors for heart disease and stroke. -
...Could Prevent Cancer
: Studies show late shift workers have a higher risk for breast and colon cancer. Researchers believe this link is caused by differing levels of melatonin in people who are exposed to less light. Melatonin appears to suppress the growth of tumors. -
...Calms Stress
When your body is sleep-deficient, it goes into a state of stress, producing more cortisol and adrenaline to help energize you. Unfortunately, this reaction also makes it harder for you to sleep. Getting enough sleep helps reverse this process. -
...Reduces Inflammation
Stress hormones also raise the level of inflammation in the body. Inflammation is considered to be a factor in the deterioration of the body as it ages. -
...Sharpens Focus
A good night's sleep helps us concentrate the next day. When you wake up feeling refreshed, you have the energy needed to be more fully engaged in the world. -
...Helps Memory
When you’re in deep REM sleep your brain is busy processing your day making connections between events, sensory input, feelings and memories. -
...Fights Obesity
Researchers found that people who sleep less than seven hours per night are more likely to be overweight or obese. It’s thought that the lack of sleep impacts the balance of hormones in the body that affect appetite. -
...Decreases Depression
Sleep affects several chemicals in your body, including serotonin. People with a deficiency in serotonin are more likely to suffer from depression. -
...Repairs Your Body
There’s science behind the expression “beauty sleep.” Sleep is a time for your body to help compensate for damage caused by stressors such as ultraviolet rays and other harmful exposures. Your cells produce more protein while you are sleeping. These protein molecules form the building blocks for cells, allowing them to repair damage.
About The Author
Robin Westen is ThirdAge's medical reporter. Check for her daily updates. Her latest book, co-authored with Dr. Alyssa Dweck, is "V Is For Vagina."
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