Learn how sleep affects your immune system.
We all know how important sleep is for our overall health, but a new study found that proper rest has a significant effect on strengthening our immune system. Researchers in Germany found that our bodies can fight more infections with healthy sleep. Continue reading to learn more about the connection between sleep and our immune system.
Key Findings
In the study, researches focused on T Cells, a type of white blood cells, that are crucial to our immune response. They found that T Cells may attach to virus-infected cells more easily while we sleep, which helps to boost immune system activity. The results suggest that T-Cells during sleep are more effective in destroying viruses, so getting a healthy amount of sleep every night is essential for your health.
Side Effects Sleep Deprivation
A lack of sleep can affect your immune system, as those who don’t get enough quality sleep are more likely to get sick, but it can also affect how fast you recover after getting sick. While you sleep, your immune system releases proteins called cytokines, and some of these proteins help to promote sleep. Certain cytokines must increase when you have an infection or when you’re feeling a lot of stress or anxiety. Sleep deprivation can decrease the production of your body’s protective cytokines, as well as infection-fighting antibodies and cells.
Make Time For Naps
While it’s recommended to get seven to eight hours of sleep each night, this is not always possible for those who have hectic schedules and busy jobs. You should try your best to get as much sleep as possible at night, but if you need to get up early to stay up late, your next best option is to take a nap during the day. Making up for the lost rest with a nap can help keep your immune system in fighting shape, and protect you from various other health issues. In fact, taking two naps (under 30 minutes each) in the morning in the afternoon has been shown to decrease stress and offset the negative effects of sleep deprivation. Make time for a short nap during your lunch break at work, and try to rest when you get home for 20 minutes before dinner. These short naps can have a significant effect on your immune system, and your body will thank you for making an effort to catch up on sleep.
Sleep Well With A Mattress From All American Mattress
At All American Mattress, we have the expertise and great prices to help you choose the perfect pillows and foam mattress for your bedroom. We have mattresses and bed frames available made from a variety of materials to suit your needs, whatever they are. Stop by our showroom, visit us online, or give us a call at (410) 451-9006 to see how we can get your toddler sleeping through the night. We offer brand names at affordable prices, and we will always work hard to keep your whole family comfortable. For more mattress shopping tips, be sure to follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, and Google+.
Tags: all american mattress, Health Benefits, immune system, Sleep Tips