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Sleep plays a crucial role in immune function from "summary" of Why We Sleep by Matthew Walker
Sleep is not a luxury. It is an essential part of life, just like eating and breathing. Without sleep, our bodies cannot function properly, and our health suffers. One crucial role that sleep plays is in our immune function. While we sleep, our bodies are hard at work, repairing and rejuvenating. During sleep, our immune system releases proteins called cytokines. These proteins are essential for fighting infection and inflammation. Without enough sleep, our bodies produce fewer cytokines, leaving us more vulnerable to illnesses. In fact, studies have shown that people who don't get enough sleep are more likely to get sick after being exposed to a virus, such as the common cold. Additionally, sleep helps our immune system form a "memory" of past infections. This memory allows our bodies to respond more effectively when faced with the same infection in the future. Without enough sleep, our immune system struggles to remember past invaders, making us more susceptible to getting sick again. Chronic sleep deprivation can have long-lasting effects on our immune function. People who consistently don't get enough sleep are at a higher risk for developing chronic illnesses, such as heart disease, diabetes, and even certain types of cancer. This is because a compromised immune system is less effective at fighting off disease. In today's fast-paced world, it can be tempting to sacrifice sleep in favor of work or social activities. However, by neglecting our sleep, we are putting our health at risk. It is important to prioritize sleep and make sure we are getting enough each night. Our immune system depends on it.
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