Improved Sleep Can Boost the Immune System

The benefits of sleep are both preventative and restorative, yet a third of Americans aren’t getting the recommended seven to nine hours of sleep each night, estimates the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. 

Sleep plays a critical role in supporting a healthy immune system, and a lack of it can increase your risk of infection. During sleep, the body produces proteins called cytokines that fight inflammation and infection. When the body is exposed to infectious pathogens, has inflammation, or experiences chronic stress, it increases production of cytokines to fight illness. Lack of sleep hinders this immune response, making it more difficult for the body to fight off infections.

The Institute for Functional Medicine recommends improving sleep by making simple changes in daily routine, such as:

• Maintaining a consistent sleep schedule
• Taking in more daylight and limiting artificial light exposure
• Staying active
• Avoiding caffeine, alcohol, and large meals before bed
• Taking naps
• Practicing mindfulness or finding other ways to unwind
• Improving sleep environment to make sure it is cool, dark, quiet, and comfortable.

If sleep disturbances persist after making these changes, patients should consider seeing a doctor to rule out any underlying health conditions.