Do you realize that your immune system and sleep are related? In addition to making you more active, getting enough sleep is important to maintain a healthy lifestyle and immune system. Ever ponder how the sleep cycle operates? Humans have an internal clock called the circadian rhythm that regulates their sleep-wake cycle. Continue reading to learn some interesting facts about a good night’s sleep.
The immune system is the complex network in the human body that engages in protecting the body against foreign particles like bacteria, viruses, and any infections. The immune system consists of two parts namely innate and adaptive immune systems. Innate immunity is an inbuilt immunity whereas adaptive immunity is acquired throughout a person’s growth.
Sleep contributes to both innate and adaptive immune systems. A good night’s sleep increases the T-cells which are vital for fighting against invading bacteria and viruses. Our immune system cells detect foreign pathogens as soon as they enter the body and release a protein referred to as integrin. Integrin aids T-cells in attaching to foreign antigens and eventually destroying them.
It was discovered that pro-inflammatory chemicals like prostaglandins, as well as hormones like adrenaline and noradrenaline, prevented T-cells from fusing with integrins. During sleep, the concentration of these stress hormones (adrenaline, noradrenaline, and prostaglandins) declines. Therefore, getting enough sleep increases T-cell effectiveness and enhances the body’s immunological response.
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