Sleep is essential for keeping our immune systems healthy. When we get enough sleep, our bodies are better equipped to fight off infections and illnesses due to the fact that our immune system is stronger. Not getting enough sleep can weaken the functioning of your immune system and leave you vulnerable to illness.
The human body has a natural rhythm called the circadian rhythm which helps regulate our sleeping patterns. During sleep, cytokines are released which help fight off infection and inflammation. Cytokines are natural proteins found in the body that help protect us from illness by increasing immunity and eliminating pathogens. A lack of sleep disrupts this natural cycle and can reduce the production of cytokines, leading to a weakened immune response.
Studies have shown that people who get between seven and nine hours of sleep per night are three times less likely to catch a cold than those who slept fewer hours per night or more than nine hours per night. Additionally, research has revealed that even small amounts of lost sleep can affect your immunity negatively—even as little as one hour per night can lead to an increased risk of illness.
Sleep deprivation also increases stress hormones like cortisol, which can suppress your white blood cell count—the cells responsible for attacking bacteria and viruses that make us sick. Over time, sustained stress can weaken our overall immune function.
Getting into a regular sleeping pattern is beneficial for your physical health because it allows your body to produce the cytokines necessary for boosting immunity while minimizing cortisol levels at the same time. It is also important to practice good hygiene habits such as washing your hands regularly and avoiding large crowds when possible to minimize your risk of contracting an illness due to a weakened immune system caused by lack of sleep or poor sleeping habits.
In conclusion, getting adequate amounts of quality sleep each night is critical for maintaining optimal health and immunity levels throughout life. Not only does it play an important role in improving overall energy levels but it helps keep your body’s defenses strong against infection-causing bacteria and viruses by allowing it to produce adequate amounts of protective proteins called cytokines needed for maintaining optimal health. So make sure you’re getting between seven and nine hours of restful sleep each night!
