Sleepless Nights for Three Consecutive Days Might Negatively Impact Heart Health
Inadequate Sleep Could Increase Heart Disease Risks, Study Shows
A recent study conducted by researchers at Uppsala University in Sweden reveals the potential danger of prolonged periods of inadequate sleep for heart health, even among young and healthy individuals. The study, published in the Journal of Biomarker Research, suggests that just three nights of poor sleep can significantly elevate levels of inflammation proteins in the blood, raising the risk of developing heart disease.
The study followed 16 healthy young males, observing their responses to two different sleep conditions. The participants adhered to two sleep routines: three nights of normal sleep (8.5 hours) and three nights of restricted sleep (4.25 hours). After each sleep phase, the men were required to complete brief, intense cycling sessions, and their blood samples were analyzed pre- and post-exercise.
The results indicated a substantial increase in inflammation proteins in the blood, as a result of sleep deprivation. Inflammation proteins, occurring due to the body's stress response or attempts to combat diseases, can lead to the damage of blood vessels and, in turn, increase the risk of heart-related complications such as heart failure, coronary heart disease, and atrial fibrillation. Typically, exercise aids in fostering beneficial proteins that promote brain and heart health, but these benefits were significantly reduced in the participants following insufficient sleep.
These changes in young, healthy adults were observed following only three nights of poor sleep. Dr. Annie Curtis from the Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland expressed concern, stating that these findings imply a potentially widespread issue as poor sleep is fairly common in the adult population.
In Germany, approximately six out of every hundred people suffer from sleep disorders, and the causes can be manifold. These may include stress, unhealthy lifestyle choices, underlying health conditions, various medications, shift work, personality traits, or gene predispositions. Insomnia can lead to a variety of health issues, including high blood pressure, heart attacks, and heart failure. Furthermore, it can contribute to mental health concerns, primarily depression.
Experts advise seeking medical help if sleep problems persist and addressing the root cause. Improving sleep hygiene, such as establishing regular sleep routines, engaging in relaxation exercises, and avoiding caffeine and heavy meals in the evenings, can also help alleviate sleep issues. Overthinking about the missed sleep can keep you awake, so it is essential to try and maintain a positive approach.
Recent studies highlight the negative effects of short-term sleep deprivation on heart health, even for otherwise young and healthy individuals. Besides increased inflammation and heart disease markers, consistent sleep deprivation can result in prolonged inflammation, elevated stress hormones like cortisol, and greater strain on the heart and blood vessels—all major risk factors for cardiovascular disease.
- The community should be made aware of the study that shows inadequate sleep could increase heart disease risks, as it also suggests this could happen among young and healthy individuals.
- Vocational training programs could incorporate sessions on health-and-wellness, including information about the potential dangerous effects of prolonged periods of inadequate sleep on cardiovascular-health.
- In light of the study, individuals with sleep disorders or those at risk of developing them due to medical-conditions like chronic-diseases or mental-health issues should consider seeking medical advice to address any sleep irregularities.
- CBD, known for its potential benefits on mental-health and inflammation, might be a supplement to consider for those struggling with sleep, as prolonged sleep deprivation can be a risk factor for various heart-related complications and cardiovascular diseases.
