Did you know that good night's sleep plays a pivotal role in maintaining a healthy immune system? Our immune system is the first line of defense against viruses and infections. Plenty of good quality sleep can help ensure our immune system is robust.
Researchers from the University of Túbingden found that good quality sleep can bolster T cells in your body. T cells are a type of immune cells that fight against intracellular pathogens and cells infected with viruses 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 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 our immune system response by decreasing the body’s lymphocytes. These are the white blood cells that help fight off infection. If your lymphocyte level is low, you are more at risk at catching viral infections.
Modern life means we have numerous distractions to keep us 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.
The sleep experts at Better Bedding have a wide selection of beds, mattresses, pillows, bed linen, and much more to ensure you have everything you need for the perfect night’s sleep. Visit Better Bedding, Sean Mulvoy Road, Galway, call 091 756766, or see www.betterbedding.ie
