Tag: Sleep

Scientists have “faked” sleep in mice by artificially creating the on/off neuronal firing pattern similar to that seen in non-REM sleep. This produced sleep-like effects, including improved learning memory [1]. Can sleep be emulated? Getting proper amounts and quality of sleep is one of the best things for health and longevity [2], but in modern...

A recent study found an association between longer and more frequent daytime napping and higher mortality risk. The authors suggest using napping frequency and duration as behavioral markers of increased mortality risk [1]. Common activity with a dark side Daytime napping is a relatively common activity among older adults. It is estimated that between 20%...

A new study links sleep loss to the thinning of the myelin layer, which slows signal transmission in axons. Restoring cholesterol homeostasis reverses the damage [1]. Sleep loss hurts myelin Sleep quality is a strong extrinsic determinant of longevity [2]. Not only does sleep loss affect cognitive function [3], it has also been linked to...

A new review summarizes our knowledge about lifestyle interventions, such as exercise, healthy diet, and good sleep, that can possibly reduce cellular senescence [1]. What do we do with a senescent cell? Cellular SenescenceAs your body ages, more of your cells become senescent. Senescent cells do not divide or support the tissues of which they...

A new preprint suggests that continuous sleep disruption might drive health problems via increased cellular senescence in visceral fat tissue [1]. Sleep and health Until recently, the impact of sleep on human health was largely overlooked, including for healthcare professionals who work long hours. Now, scientists are beginning to understand that impaired sleep quality drives...

"Why We Sleep: Unlocking the Power of Sleep and Dreams" by Matthew Walker, renowned sleep research scientist and psychiatry professor at Harvard, is a comprehensive exploration of sleep that offers a rich blend of science, research, and practical advice. The book is divided into four parts, each building on the previous to present a full...