How sleep deprivation affects your body
Sleep deprivation is when one does not get the necessary amount of sleep for maintaining their health and wellbeing. Even a day of no sleep can have a profound impact on both physical and mental health. Recognizing the symptoms of sleep deprivation is crucial for addressing potential issues and prioritizing sufficient rest. Ideally, adults should sleep between seven and nine hours a night.
Weight gain
Prolonged sleep disturbances might lead to fast weight gain. Higher levels of the stress hormone cortisol are linked to sleep deprivation. The ensuing worry, tension, and frustration often lead to emotional eating and unhealthy eating patterns. Furthermore, another hormone, ghrelin, is produced in the stomach and has been linked to prolonged sleep deprivation. An overabundance of ghrelin can further increase appetite.
Reduced immune functions
Your immune system creates antiviral and cytokine-producing antibodies and other chemicals while you sleep. Lack of sleep inhibits the immune system's ability to strengthen itself. A weak immune system makes the body more vulnerable to infections and diseases. Your body may not be able to fight off intruders and recovery from disease may also take longer if you don't get enough sleep.
Mood swings
Lack of sleep can affect one's mood, increasing feelings of anxiety or even depression. People who don't get enough sleep may become agitated, impatient, and uninspired. Additionally, they could find it difficult to control their emotions and adapt to change. One becomes less attentive and may find it increasingly difficult to multitask as their sleep debt increases.
Risk of heart attack
Lack of sleep increases the risk of deadly cardiovascular issues like heart attacks and strokes. This, according to medical professionals and experts, is because sleep deprivation may interfere with brain regions that regulate blood flow or induce inflammation that heightens the risk of blood clot formation. Sleep is essential for your body's capacity to mend and heal the heart and blood vessels.
