Sleepless nights may cause dementia
Restless slumber could mean something more sinister than just a ‘bad nights sleep’, as new research has found people who experience fragmented sleep may have a higher risk of developing dementia. Researchers from Stanford University conducted a study on tossing and turning in one’s sleep and its effect on the brain.
Restless slumber could mean something more sinister than just a ‘bad nights sleep’, as new research has found people who experience fragmented sleep may have a higher risk of developing dementia.
Researchers from Stanford University conducted a study on tossing and turning in one’s sleep and its effect on the brain.
“Sleep continuity is one of the main factors affected in various pathological conditions that impact memory including Alzheimer’s disease and other age-related cognitive deficits,” Dr Luis de Lecea, lead researcher of the study, said.
Many experts have claimed that deep sleep is needed for the retention of memories by the brain.
Analysing their hypothesis on lab rodents, the team found disrupting the sleep of the animals made it difficult for them to recognise familiar objects whereas in contrast, uninterrupted sleep led to better memory.
British Sleep Society’s former chairman, Dr Neil Stanley, said he was not sure if sleep affects the degeneration of the brain or whether the degeneration of the brain affects sleep.
“Regardless of the total amount of sleep or sleep intensity, a minimal unit of uninterrupted sleep is crucial for memory consolidation,” the study concluded.
In order to ensure a good night’s sleep, cut back on caffeine; avoid alcohol, which may cause disturbances in sleep; relax before bedtime; exercise regularly; avoid heavy meals before bedtime; restrict nicotine; and avoid napping or watching TV in bed.
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