We’ve all been there: A fitful night in bed, with our sleep disrupted either by bad dreams or anxiety about some problem in our life. The result might be a little grogginess and crankiness in the morning.
But a University of California at Berkley study suggests the consequences of restless sleep could be far more serious than grumpiness. They could include hardening of the arteries.
Poor sleep as a risk factor for cardiovascular disease just like poor diet and smoking might seem a stretch. But the researchers say that fragmented nightly sleep patterns lead to fatty arterial plaque buildup known as atherosclerosis.
The project tracked and analyzed data from more than 1,600 middle-aged and older adults, including measurements of sleep habits, inflammation factors and plaque buildup. Their testing showed that fitful sleep can lead to chronic circulating inflammation throughout the bloodstream, which can cause plaque buildup.
Paying attention to our sleep habits when we’re younger could have positive effects down the road when we start tacking on the years. Making sure we get a good night’s sleep could protect our cardiovascular system in the same way as keeping our weight down or watching our blood pressure.
But it isn’t just hardening of the arteries that poor sleep habits might be impacting. Scientists suggest looking at the association of poor sleep and inflammation on other diseases. Those could include neurological disorders like major depression and Alzheimer’s.
So, respect the power of a good night’s sleep. You’ll probably feel better in the morning — and in your old age.