Soak up the sun!
Regulating our circadian rhythm has loads of benefits, including reducing the risk of allergic reactions. How do we do this? Exposure to sunlight!
How are disease and sleep linked?
Poor sleep can not only be a symptom of various diseases but a cause. Explore the possible links between poor sleep and health issues.
Is there a connection between sleep and muscle mass?
When we are on a diet, healthy sleep will help us keep our muscles while losing fat. Learn more about how this process works.
With the cold and flu season swiftly approaching, many of us are doing all we can to stay healthy. We may get our annual vaccinations, take extra vitamins and be more mindful of our hand washing. But did you know that one of the greatest risks to our immune system can be a lack of healthy sleep? Let’s explore the link between sleep and illness.
How poor sleep impacts immunity
Researchers have found that during nightly sleep, certain components of the immune system rev up. When we fail to get adequate sleep, this process is interrupted. This causes wide-ranging health effects, including an increased risk of illness and infection. A recent study showed that people who slept fewer than six hours each night in a week were more than 4 times more likely to catch a cold!
How poor sleep impacts vaccinations
Sleep is also an important factor in determining the effectiveness of vaccines. Scientists have found that vaccines are less effective in adults who fail to get at least 7 hours of regular sleep, potentially leaving them unprotected despite having been vaccinated. Adults with severe sleep deprivation may even require a second dose of a vaccine to make it fully effective.
How can we improve our sleep and our health?
How can we improve our sleep hygiene and boost our immune systems? One way is to expose ourselves to natural light. The body’s internal clock is regulated by light exposure. When we get a dose of bright light early in the morning, it can help us feel more alert during the day. It also allows us to feel sleepy in the evening and fall asleep more easily. So, enjoy a cup of coffee on the porch, take an early morning walk, or open up the curtains and get a natural boost to your immune system this fall!