Sleep deprivation has fatal consequences for health

Chronic sleep deprivation suppresses the immune system – This is the conclusion reached by specialists at the University of Washington in Seattle. This would explain why constantly sleep-deprived people are more likely to contract róvarious types of diseases.

The researchers took próblood samples from 11 pairs of monozygotic twins, whoóre had ródifferent sleep patterns. After analysis of próbek have discovered that one of the twins, whoóre usually sleep deprived, has a weakened immune system of the body in porównaniu with its siblings.

– Our research shows that the immune system functions better when we are sleepy. For optimal health, at least seven hours of sleep is recommended – said study leader Dr. Nathaniel Watson.

A unique feature of this study was the involvement of monozygotic twins in the study. Researchers through this found that genetic determinants account for 31-55 percent of sleep duration. The rest is a matter of environment and the behavior of the individual in question.

A number of studies to date suggest that sleep restriction – for a specific period of time under laboratory conditions – can increase levels of markeróin inflammation, which in turn increases the activity of the comóre immune. Little is known, however, about the effects of long-term sleep deprivation in the wild. This study shows for the first time that chronic deficiencyór sleep limits the body’s immune response.

– Our study provides further evidenceów on the fact that sleep is very important for ogól health and well-being, specificallyóliveness for the health of the immune system – added Watson.