Did you know a good night's sleep plays a pivotal role in maintaining a healthy immune system?
A person's immune system is the first line of defence against viruses and infections. Plenty of good quality sleep can help ensure one's immune system is robust. Researchers from the University of Túbingden found that good quality sleep can bolster T cells in the body. T cells are a type of immune cells that fight against intracellular pathogens, like virus infected cells such as the flu. When cells recognise a virally infected cell they activate integrins, a sticky type of protein which allows them to attach to and kill infected cells.
Poor sleep can also result in higher levels of stress hormones. Stress hormones have the potential to decrease the efficiency of T cell immune response to kill pathogens. Stress can also alter the immune system response by decreasing the body’s lymphocytes. These are the white blood cells that help fight off infection. If a person's lymphocyte level is low, they are more at risk at catching viral infections.
Modern life means people have numerous distractions that can keep them awake at night. Making sleep a priority should be a conscious decision. Make a routine of it. Have a comfortable sleeping environment, good quality mattress, pillow and bedding.
Better Bedding is Galway's sleep expert. It has a wide selection of beds, mattresses, pillows, bed linen and much more to ensure everyone has everything they need for the perfect night’s sleep.
Better Bedding, Sean Mulvoy Rd, Galway. Call 091756766, or visit www.betterbedding.ie
