Sleep Deprivation and Your Immune System

Sleep deprivation is dangerous to your immune system and could make you more susceptible to infections. 
 
Timestamps
0:08 Sleep deprivation effects on the immune system 
0:28 Circadian waves and immunity 

Today we’re going to talk about sleep and how sleep deprivation can affect your immune system. Your immune system is highly influenced by your sleep cycles. If you’re not sleeping, your immune system is not going to work as it should. 

When you sleep, you stimulate growth hormone. Growth hormone is intimately involved with proteins, and your entire immune system is made out of proteins. 

Sleep deprivation will cause you to have higher levels of cortisol and adrenaline. Both of these, if spiked chronically, will suppress the immune system.

The rhythm of sleep is called circadian waves. The strength of your macrophages is highly dependent on your sleep cycles. These basically eat up harmful microbes and protect you against invaders. 

Certain T cells and cytokines peak right when you start to fall asleep, while others will peak during the day. For example, killer T cells peak during the day. When you don’t get sleep, and you’re more tired during the day, these cells can’t protect you as well. The speed at which the white blood cells fight infection and the memory of immune function will also be suppressed. 

If your body can’t remember certain pathogens or fight infection, then you’re going to be more susceptible to getting sick. 

Dr. Eric Berg DC Bio:
Dr. Berg, age 58, is a chiropractor who specializes in Healthy Ketosis & Intermittent Fasting. He is the author of the best-selling book The Healthy Keto Plan, and is the Director of Dr. Berg’s Nutritionals. He no longer practices, but focuses on health education through social media.

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Disclaimer:
Dr. Eric Berg received his Doctor of Chiropractic degree from Palmer College of Chiropractic in 1988. His use of “doctor” or “Dr.” in relation to himself solely refers to that degree. Dr. Berg is a licensed chiropractor in Virginia, California, and Louisiana, but he no longer practices chiropractic in any state and does not see patients so he can focus on educating people as a full time activity, yet he maintains an active license. This video is for general informational purposes only. It should not be used to self-diagnose and it is not a substitute for a medical exam, cure, treatment, diagnosis, and prescription or recommendation. It does not create a doctor-patient relationship between Dr. Berg and you. You should not make any change in your health regimen or diet before first consulting a physician and obtaining a medical exam, diagnosis, and recommendation. Always seek the advice of a physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.

Thanks for watching! Sleep deprivation can have a huge impact on the immune system. Be sure to get plenty of quality sleep.