Gaby
We’ve often heard that as we age, our sleep deteriorates, becoming restless and less restorative than it was in our youth. Factors such as changes in circadian rhythms, increased nighttime urination, anxiety, and chronic illnesses can all impact sleep quality as we grow older.
But how does sleep influence the aging process, which, unfortunately, nothing can halt? By analyzing the physiological changes that occur in the brain and body during nighttime rest, we can understand why cultivating good sleep habits is so crucial in our later years.
What Happens When We Sleep?
During sleep, our body works wonders—repairing, rebooting, and rejuvenating organs and cells, as noted by BBC Science Focus. In this mini reboot, muscles are restored, hormonal levels are regulated, and the brain focuses on eliminating neurotoxic waste.
Some of the most significant changes that occur in the human body during sleep include:
- Consolidation of emotional and procedural (long-term, implicit) memory during rapid eye movement (REM) sleep.
- Neurochemical reboot of the brain: the activity of dopamine (the motivation and pleasure hormone) and serotonin (the mood, sleep, and wakefulness hormone) significantly decreases during sleep.
- Muscle recovery as growth hormone—somatotropin—is released, replenishing glycogen levels and anti-inflammatory cytokines.
- Regulation of hormone levels, including leptin, which is responsible for metabolism and satiety, as well as the production of the sleep hormone—melatonin—and a reduction in the stress hormone—cortisol.
Why Does Sleep Become More Important with Age?
Waste Clearance
While we sleep, the glymphatic system works to help the brain eliminate waste. This includes neurotoxins like beta-amyloid, the accumulation of which in the form of plaques is linked to Alzheimer’s disease.
Supporting the Immune System
As we age, our immune system naturally weakens. This complex process is known as immunosenescence. There are many ways to support the system, one of which is deep sleep, which enhances the activity of immune cells.
Cardiovascular Health
When we sleep, our heart rate slows down, and blood pressure decreases. This allows the cardiovascular system to rest.
Insulin Sensitivity
The quality, duration, and timing of sleep affect insulin sensitivity. Insufficient sleep increases insulin resistance, thereby raising the risk of developing type 2 diabetes.
While we sleep, miracles happen. This natural process of healing and restoration cannot be bought at a pharmacy like a pill. The only thing we can do is create the conditions for a restful night’s sleep.
