According to Dr. Sue Peacock, "Lack of sleep will only lead to feelings of fatigue and exhaustion, and this issue can become more complicated if it persists over long periods of time." Research has shown that sleep directly impacts the effectiveness of the immune system and its ability to produce cytokines, which are protective substances that fight infections and aid in sleep. As a result, sleep indirectly enhances the body’s ability to resist diseases.
Regarding weight, studies have found that people who sleep less than six hours a night are at a higher risk of obesity and diabetes. Sleep helps regulate hormones like cortisol, leptin, and ghrelin. When this balance is disrupted due to insufficient sleep, hunger increases, leading to overeating and weight gain. Furthermore, lack of sleep alters the body’s response to food, further promoting weight gain.
Additionally, insufficient sleep is linked to cognitive decline, affecting memory and concentration, and increasing the risk of accidents. As for heart health, sleep deprivation raises the risk of cardiovascular diseases such as high blood pressure, stroke, and heart attacks. One study found that difficulty sleeping and increased awakenings during the night raised the risks by 27% and 18%, respectively. Sleep also plays a crucial role in repairing the heart and blood vessels, allowing the body to rest and enhancing the recovery of other organs.
Working night shifts and prolonged exposure to light can reduce melatonin levels, potentially promoting cancer cell growth. A 2010 study revealed that sleeping less than six hours a night increases the risk of colon cancer by 50%.
Therefore, getting adequate sleep is crucial for safeguarding our health as it strengthens the immune system, maintains a healthy weight, improves brain and heart health, and protects against serious diseases.