
A new research went to study the relation between aging and a good night’s sleep.
A new research went to study the relation between aging and a good night’s sleep. As such, they determined that the quality of our rest is, in fact, affected by this former process. In its turn, this can lead to both physical and mental consequences.
Research was based on a review of previous scientific literature published on the matter. The new study was released in the Neuron journal. This review was carried out by University of California, Berkeley researchers. According to them, people start losing their ability for a restorative, deep rest perhaps sooner than believed.
Poor Sleep Or Its Absence Can Lead To A Number Of Health Issues
“Sleep changes with aging, but it doesn’t just change with aging, it can also start to explain aging itself.”
This is according to Matthew Walker, one of the study co-authors. He stated that all the major health issues affecting big nations have been linked or traced back to sleep. Or more exactly, its absence or poor quality.
Adults first begin losing their sleeping abilities sometime in their mid 30’s. Reportedly, this could be linked to the brain’s ability to regenerate itself. As it ages, the circuits and neurons responsible for regulating sleep begin degrading. This, in its turn, can result in a decrease in the amount and frequency of non-REM sleep.
This type of rest has a key role in maintaining cognition and memories. As such, its absence or reduced quantity can lead to some serious problems. According to the study team, they are also following a scientific debate on the matter.
Some question if older adults require less rest. Or, on the contrary, some wonder if they are unable to generate the amount of rest that they would actually need. The researchers found evidence in the literature supporting both claims. They also point out that there is a variability in sleep loss among individuals. The team considers that science should pay closer attention to sleep and its disturbances.
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