Cytokines are a type of protein that plays an important role in the body’s immune response. They act as messengers between cells, helping to coordinate the body’s response to infections, inflammation, and stress. During sleep, the body produces cytokines, which are important for supporting the immune system and promoting overall health.
One of the key cytokines that is produced during sleep is interleukin-1 (IL-1), which plays a critical role in the body’s inflammatory response. IL-1 helps to activate white blood cells and increase the production of other cytokines, which helps to fight infections and promote healing.
Other cytokines that are produced during sleep include tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-alpha), which helps to fight infections and promote tissue repair, and interleukin-6 (IL-6), which plays a role in regulating inflammation and promoting the body’s response to stress.
Chronic sleep deprivation can disrupt the production of cytokines, leading to an imbalance in the body’s immune system and an increased risk of infections, inflammation, and chronic diseases. Studies have shown that people who consistently get less than 7 hours of sleep per night have lower levels of cytokines than those who get adequate sleep.
Therefore, it is important to prioritize healthy sleep habits to support the body’s natural production of cytokines and maintain overall health.
This includes sticking to a regular sleep schedule, creating a relaxing
sleep environment, avoiding stimulating activities before bedtime and addressing any underlying sleep disorders.
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