Researchers from the University of Rochester Medical Center have found another reason why sleep is so important to our brains. During sleep, a waste-flushing system in the brain, called the glymphatic system, is 10 times more active than during periods of wakefulness. As we sleep, brain cells shrink in size by 60% to allow for better removal of waste from the brain.
The findings were based on brain imaging experiments in mice, using technologies such as two-photo microscopy. Researchers found that when the mice were put to sleep, cerebral spinal fluid is ushered through their brains via this waste-removal system, which then moves toxins to the circulatory system and the liver.
The study shows the brain functions differently when asleep and when awake. The brain has limited energy at its disposal and it appears that it must choose between 2 different function states. It can’t really function and clean up at the same time.
No matter what reason you decide to get the proper amount of sleep, your brain will thank you for it. A healthy brain is one step closer to a healthier you!
No comments yet.