A recent study in Neurology found that patients who suffered from poor sleep health had a more rapid decline in brain volume or size over the course of the study than those who slept well. The results were even more significant in participants over the age of 60.
Many studies have shown the negative effects sleep deprivation can have on our brains (as well as our body far, particularly belly fat). Science has shown the connection between poor sleep patterns and Alzheimer’s dementia. Obese men and women are estimated to be about 35% more likely to develop Alzheimer’s compared to people of a normal weight.
See blog:
“ I Don’t Sleep Well! I Have Insomnia!”
“Poor sleep can affect our immune systems, our cardiovascular health, weight and, of course, memories.” Dr. Neal Maru, a neurologist and sleep specialist with Integrated Sleep Services.
Bad News: Obesity shrinks your brain. I have previously discussed the effect of obesity on the brain and the studies showing that brain volume decreases with excess body fat. This is just another of many reasons to achieve a healthy body fat percentage.
Good News: Getting rid of excess body fat improves brain function. New research shows that getting rid of excess fat actually improves brain function, reversing the ill effects of the extra weight. Another piece of good news is that reducing your body fat by 10% reduces your overall health risks by up to 50%.
Good News Tip: Brains think more clearly when we’re not overworking ourselves. By taking a break from work, you’ll experience more “idea” moments, since you’re not using your brain to focus on endless tasks that lie ahead or dwelling on events that occurred in the past. But using your vacation for relaxation and not catching up on work is the key to mentally recharging.
Disclaimer: The information in this blog is not supported by any single scholarly article but is gleaned from many different sources. Nevertheless, the information is believed to be factual.[/fusion_builder_column][/fusion_builder_row][/fusion_builder_container]