A single night of sleep deprivation may be enough to weaken the immune system, according to new research published in The Journal of Immunology, as reported by Daily Mail.
Short-Term Sleep Loss Triggers Inflammation
While long-term sleep deprivation has been linked to obesity, heart disease, and type 2 diabetes, researchers at the Dasman Diabetes Institute in Kuwait found that even one restless night can trigger harmful inflammation in the body.
The study revealed that sleep loss disrupts immune defenses, increasing inflammation levels that impair the body’s ability to fight infections and heal injuries.
Impact on Immune Cells
Researchers studied monocytes—immune cells that combat viruses and bacteria. Blood samples from five healthy participants, taken before and after 24 hours of sleep deprivation, showed a rise in non-classical monocytes, which detect and respond to inflammatory signals.
While inflammation is a normal immune response, chronic inflammation can damage healthy tissues and weaken overall immunity.
READ MORE: Amazon Introduces Alexa+ – Smarter, More Personalized AI Assistant
Obesity, Poor Sleep, and Higher Inflammation
A second study involving 237 adults linked poor sleep quality to higher inflammation levels, especially in overweight and obese individuals. Of 38 inflammatory markers analyzed, 13 showed significant differences between overweight and healthy-weight participants.
Rising Concerns Over Sleep Health
The findings come as concerns about sleep health grow in the UK. A survey by The Sleep Charity revealed that one in six Britons suffers from insomnia, yet 65% never seek medical help.
Experts note that occasional sleepless nights do not indicate insomnia, but factors such as stress, caffeine, alcohol, shift work, and jet lag can contribute to disrupted sleep patterns.
Tips for Better Sleep
To improve sleep quality and reduce inflammation, specialists recommend:
✔ Maintaining a consistent sleep schedule
✔ Engaging in daily physical activity
✔ Creating a restful, screen-free environment
Future Research and Health Implications
Scientists emphasize the importance of sleep in regulating immune function and hope future studies will explore interventions to reduce the risk of inflammatory diseases like obesity, diabetes, and heart disease.
