Fending Off Illness

We all know sleep is important. But you may not realize just how much your immune defenses rely on adequate shut-eye to function properly. Skipping sleep can weaken the body’s ability to fend off pathogens and make you more prone to getting sick. Here’s a look at why sleep and immunity go hand-in-hand.

During sleep, your immune cells kick into high gear, ramping up production of protective cytokines and infection-fighting antibodies. Without sufficient sleep, your immune system lacks the resources to effectively combat foreign invaders like bacteria and viruses. Even just partial sleep deprivation for a few nights can render these defenses impaired.

In today's fast-paced world, skimping on sleep has almost become a badge of honor. But the evidence clearly shows that short-changing your slumber comes at an immunological cost. Click To Tweet

In particular, T cells—the immune system’s attack cells that destroy infected or cancerous cells—are especially hampered by lack of sleep. Studies show T cells from sleep-deprived individuals have reduced abilities to activate, proliferate, and coordinate attacks. This collapse in immunity makes it easier for illnesses like the cold or flu to gain a foothold.

Chronic sleep deprivation also leads to elevated levels of inflammatory chemicals called cytokines circulating in the body. This excessive inflammation taxes the immune system over time, inducing potential problems like cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and autoimmune disorders. Ongoing inflammation essentially puts your immune defenses in a constant state of overactivation and stress.

Furthermore, sleep is when the body produces critical proteins called growth hormones that repair damaged cells and induce the production of new ones. Without this cellular replenishment that happens during deep sleep, your body’s barriers become weakened against viruses and other pathogens. The skin, lungs, and digestive tract are more susceptible to infiltration.

Skipping sleep can weaken the body's ability to fend off pathogens and make you more prone to getting sick Click To Tweet

In today’s fast-paced world, skimping on sleep has almost become a badge of honor. But the evidence clearly shows that short-changing your slumber comes at an immunological cost. Be sure to get your 7-9 hours per night.

Your body’s defenses are relying on that time to reload, repair damages, and prepare for battle against any microbial invaders lurking right outside your door. With plenty of sleep, your immune army will be armed and ready to take them on.