Treating Sleep Disorders to Improve Cellular Health

Adequate sleep plays a vital role in healthy immune function, fighting off illness and potentially minimizing the risk of illness. Sleep is a critical component of physical and mental health, yet nearly one-third of American adults report sleeping less than the recommended seven hours per night. Chronic sleep deprivation is associated with greater self-reported incidence of depression, arthritis, diabetes, and asthma. Addressing sleep quality can be an important clinical tool for improving patients’ overall health.

Researchers have been examining what happens at the cellular level when the body is deprived of sleep, and studies suggest one of the biological functions of sleep may be to protect against oxidative stress. Research points to mitochondria, the cellular source of energy production, as a possible target of the physiological effects of sleep deprivation.

Two 2018 studies established a molecular link between the circadian clock, the mechanism that keeps bodies attuned to the day/night cycle, and the cellular mechanisms defending against oxidative damage. Analysis showed sleep deprivation affected mitochondrial bioenergetics capacity. A study that analyzed the combined effect of physical exercise and sleep deprivation on oxidative stress found that oxidative stress was a likely consequence of sleep deprivation; subjects with sleep deprivation had impaired enzymatic antioxidant defense and muscle damage.

Clinicians can help patients improve sleep and mitochondrial health with nutrition protocols and mind-body therapies. Nutrients such as omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, B vitamins, and magnesium are known to protect against oxidative damage to mitochondria. Dietary sources of melatonin such as milk and cherry juice may promote improved sleep. One study found that consuming tart cherry juice concentrate for a seven-day period significantly increased sleep duration and quality. A 2019 meta-analysis of 49 studies found that mind-body therapies such as meditation, Tai Chi, Qigong, and yoga can be effective in treating insomnia and improving sleep quality. A 2020 study found that performing 45-minute sessions of Qigong exercises five times per week for 24 weeks significantly improved overall sleep quality as compared to a control group.

Screening for sleep disorders and offering personalized lifestyle interventions are an important cornerstone of a functional medicine approach to holistic care.