Sleep plays a pivotal role in the health of your immune system. With cold and flu season right around the corner, it’s a great time to take a moment to think about the impact your daily routines of today will have on your health and immune system strength for the upcoming winter.
We’ve put together 5 fast facts to share a few things about the relationship between your sleep and immune system so you can make the adjustments you need to improve your overall health.
1. Common Cold
Studies have shown that not getting enough sleep can make the immune system more vulnerable to viruses, such as the common cold. This is because your immune system releases proteins that protect the body from infection and inflammation when you are asleep.
2. Fighting Infections
Sleep is one of the most effective ways to fight infections, as the addition of more quality sleep gives your body time to produce more of these infection-fighting proteins and ward off illnesses more quickly.
3. Immunizations
People who get more sleep before an immunization may have a better immune response with higher antibodies. If you plan on getting a flu shot or any other immunizations this fall or winter, keep this in mind and strive to get good sleep for at least a few nights before getting immunized.
4. Mattress Bacteria
Millions of units of bacteria can accumulate on your mattress in just a few years, including yeast, mold, E. coli, and Staph, according to WebMD. Sleeping on mattresses with these types of bacteria present can be harmful to your health and weaken your immune system. Using a mattress protector and washing it regularly can substantially reduce the buildup of bacteria, as well as allergens, dust mites, and other contaminants.
5. Sleep Quality
Studies indicate that implementing a consistent sleep schedule directly impacts your quality of sleep. By aiming to go to bed and wake up at roughly the same times everyday, you are doing your body, mind, and immune system a favor.
We hope you have enjoyed these 5 fast facts on the relationship between your sleep and immune system. For more education on all things sleep, check out our blog.
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