"Don't try to wake me, in the morning." - The Smiths

"Lack of sleep may shrink your brain"

By: Val Willingham

Source: CNN Health

http://www.cnn.com/2014/09/04/health/no-sleep-brain-size/index.html?hpt=he_bn3

A recent study suggests that lack of sleep can affect the size of one's brain. European researchers examined 147 adults between the ages of twenty and eighty-four. These researchers used two MRI scans to observe the association between sleep problems and the subjects' brain volume. The first scan was taken before the patients completed a questionnaire regarding their sleeping habits and the second scan was done about three and a half years later. The questionnaire results demonstrated  that thirty-five percent of those that took part in the study met the standard for poor sleep health. Researchers learned that the participants with sleep problems had an instant diminishment in their brain size over the course of the study than those who slept fine. There have been countless number of studies that have shown people the importance of sleep and the effect sleep deprivation can have on their brains. People should also be aware that poor sleep patterns can lead to disorders, such as Alzheimer's and dementia. A neurologist and sleep specialist Dr. Neal Maru explains, "We know that a lack of sleep can lead to all kinds of problems. Poor sleep can affect our immune systems, our cardiovascular health, weight and, of course, memories. But we still don't know why. Studies have shown poor sleep can cause protein buildup in the brain that attacks brain cells. So we're still trying to put the puzzle together" (Willingham, 1). Claire Sexton says, "There are effective treatments for sleep problems, so future research needs to test whether improving people's quality of sleep could slow the rate of brain volume loss. If that is the case, improving people's sleep habits could be an important way to improve brain health" (Willingham, 1).

This article is an important read because it helps the audience understand that sleep plays an important role in their health and well-being. It informs the audience that getting enough sleep can help protect their mental and physical health, quality of life, and safety.