In a new study published in the journal Cortex, researchers have found that regular physical activity may not always be sufficient to counter the long-term effects of lack of sleep on cognitive health. Previous studies on the relationship between sleep, physical activity, and cognitive function have primarily been cross-sectional, meaning they only provide a snapshot in time. The researchers were surprised to find that even with regular physical activity, the long-term effects of sleep deprivation on cognitive health were not fully mitigated.
The study, led by researchers at the University of York, emphasizes the importance of targeting both positive coping strategies and sleep quality during periods of chronic stress. Chronic stress is a major risk factor for mental health disorders such as depression and anxiety.[0] The researchers found that high-quality sleep and positive coping strategies, such as reframing negative situations to see the positive side, can help prevent poor mental health outcomes when faced with stressors.
Furthermore, the study highlights the potential impact of climate change on sleep quality, particularly for older adults with lower socioeconomic status. Night-time ambient temperature was found to play a pivotal role in sleep quality for older people. As night-time temperatures increase in cities due to climate change, it is crucial to increase adaptive capacity and optimize the sleep environment for older adults.[1]
The researchers plan to further investigate the potential impact of climate change on sleep in low-income older adults and develop interventions to improve their sleep environment. They believe that optimizing home thermal environments and personalized temperature adjustments based on individual needs can enhance sleep quality in older adults.
Additionally, another study published in the American Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine by Harvard Medical School and Brigham and Women's Hospital investigators has found that reduced blood oxygen levels caused by obstructive sleep apnea contribute to increased cardiovascular risks. The researchers suggest that treating sleep apnea could help prevent future cardiovascular outcomes. These findings could potentially change how sleep apnea is assessed and measured in clinical practice.
In another study, researchers discovered that a lack of quality sleep increases the risk of diabetes. It has been found that a lack of sleep can cause insulin resistance, a major factor in the development of Type-2 diabetes, heart diseases, and obesity. Understanding the mechanisms behind the relationship between sleep and diabetes can potentially lead to improved prevention and management strategies for these conditions.
The COVID-19 pandemic has provided a unique context for studying the relationship between sleep, coping strategies, and mental well-being. A study conducted during the pandemic found that high-quality sleep is associated with better health and well-being outcomes. However, the researchers wanted to determine if intense and prolonged periods of stress, such as those experienced during the pandemic, would affect the relationship between sleep and coping strategies. They found that even under high levels of stress, prioritizing high-quality sleep and positive coping strategies can still lead to better mental health outcomes.
In conclusion, the studies discussed in this article shed light on the importance of sleep and its impact on cognitive function, mental health, cardiovascular health, and diabetes risk. The findings emphasize the need to prioritize and optimize sleep quality, develop positive coping strategies, and consider the potential impact of climate change on sleep. Future research in these areas can further enhance our understanding of the complex relationship between sleep and various aspects of health and well-being.[2]
0. “Quality sleep can help bolster resilience to mental health disorders” www.news-medical.net, 3 Sep. 2023, https://www.news-medical.net/news/20230713/Quality-sleep-can-help-bolster-resilience-to-mental-health-disorders.aspx
1. “Harvard scientists find ideal temperature to help older people sleep …” www.deltanews.tv, 3 Sep. 2023, https://www.deltanews.tv/lifestyles/health/harvard-scientists-find-ideal-temperature-to-help-older-people-sleep/article_4bd9deef-0327-5a01-ab02-e34fe95fe3dc.html
2. “Got the blues? Study says you should get a good night's sleep …” www.news-daily.com, 3 Sep. 2023, https://www.news-daily.com/local/health/got-the-blues-study-says-you-should-get-a-good-night-s-sleep/article_61ff2cdb-3733-534d-a398-a5c8dce362e0.html
