New Study Reveals the Importance of Sleep in Restoring and Repairing the Brain
A new episode of the podcast Chasing Life with Sanjay Gupta delves into the importance of sleep and its impact on our brain and body. In this episode, Dr. Gupta interviews Victoria Garfield, a senior research fellow at the Medical Research Council Unit for Lifelong Health and Aging, who has been studying sleep for the past decade.
Garfield explains that during sleep, our brain gets a chance to rest and regenerate, resulting in improved cognitive function and overall well-being. She emphasizes the importance of getting enough sleep, ideally between 7 and 9 hours per night for adults, depending on their age.
Decades of evidence support the idea that sleeping too little or too much is associated with increased risk of various conditions, including diabetes, high blood pressure, heart attack, dementia, sleep apnea, anxiety, and depression. Garfield’s team recently conducted a study analyzing data from more than 35,000 adults and found that habitual daytime napping is associated with a larger total brain volume, equivalent to 2.5 to 6.5 years of aging. A lower total brain volume is linked to certain diseases, earlier mortality, and higher stress levels.
To ensure a well-rested brain, Garfield offers five tips:
1. Get enough quality sleep, aiming for 7 to 9 hours per night.
2. Maintain a consistent sleep schedule, going to sleep and waking up at the same time every day.
3. Take short naps, up to 30 minutes, which have shown to benefit the brain.
4. Engage in physical activity, such as going for a walk or disconnecting from devices and connecting with nature.
5. Engage in activities that require less brain power, such as watching television or grocery shopping.
Garfield acknowledges that recommendations may vary for individuals and encourages listeners to find what works best for them. She also advises against using electronics within an hour of bedtime.
Sleep is a critical factor in maintaining a healthy brain and body. By prioritizing sleep and implementing these tips, individuals can improve their cognitive function, overall well-being, and potentially reduce the risk of various health conditions. Next week, the podcast will explore the Caffeinated Brain with special guest Michael Pollan.
Listen to the full episode and discover more tips for a well-rested brain on the Chasing Life podcast.