Neuroscientist and sleep expert, Dr. Gina Poe, shares her extensive knowledge on the science of sleep in this episode of The Knowledge Project Podcast.
She explores the stages of sleep, the reasons behind waking up at night, the significance of dreams, optimal bedtime routines, and the consequences of sleep deprivation.
Sleep and Immunity
Sleep deprivation can compromise the immune system, making it less able to fight off viruses.
When we’re sick, our immune system signals our brain that we need more sleep.
Depriving someone of sleep when they’re fighting an infection can delay their recovery.
The slow waves that we didn’t know what their function was when we fall asleep are actually sweeping through and cleaning our brains from the debris that builds up across wakefulness. – Dr. Gina Poe
Significance of REM Sleep
REM sleep is considered a valuable part of sleep.
The body automatically adjusts the amount of REM sleep based on its needs.
For instance, if a person is learning a lot or has had an emotional day, they will get more REM sleep.
However, sleep disorders can result in too much REM sleep or REM sleep occurring too early in the night.
Sleep Deprivation in Hospital Settings
Hospital procedures that interrupt patients’ sleep can hinder their recovery.
Similarly, sleep-deprived hospital staff, like physicians and nurses, are more likely to make medical errors.
Irregular Sleep Patterns and Cognitive Outcomes
Maintaining a consistent sleep schedule is crucial for cognitive outcomes.
A volatile sleep onset time can lead to worse cognitive outcomes, especially in older people.
Exposing oneself to bright light in the morning can help reset the circadian clock and regulate sleep patterns.
Defining Sleep
Sleep is an active and essential process for the brain and body, impacting various organ systems.
It is not merely a passive state but a vital function that, when deprived, can lead to severe health consequences.
Stages of Sleep
Sleep is a cycle of different stages, each with its unique characteristics and functions.
These stages include drowsiness, stage one (less attentive), stage two (fully unconscious), deep slow wave sleep (deeply unconscious), and rapid eye movement sleep (dream state).
Each stage plays a significant role in brain function and overall health.
Significance of REM Sleep
The transition from stage two to rapid eye movement sleep is a critical period for memory consolidation and schema updating.
The thalamus, the gateway to consciousness, is completely inactive during this stage, characterized by low levels of neurotransmitters that are usually high during wakefulness.
Activities and Sleep Disruption
Activities that stimulate the sympathetic nervous system, such as playing violent video games, can disrupt sleep.
Conversely, activities that promote the parasympathetic system, such as taking a warm bath, can help induce sleep.
Consistency in Daily Routines
Regular habits, such as eating and sleeping at the same time every day, can help regulate the body’s circadian clock and improve sleep quality.
Nutrition and Sleep Quality
The gut nervous system, influenced by our diet, generates neurotransmitters that can affect our sleep.
However, this is a new field, and more research is needed to fully understand the connection between nutrition and sleep quality.
Sleep is not a waste of time. Your brain is really active while you’re asleep and we know a lot about the functions of sleep right now. – Dr. Gina Poe
Role of Light in Sleep Regulation
Exposure to light in the morning is crucial for resetting the circadian clock.
However, during the night, it might be beneficial to use blackout blinds, especially in brightly lit cities, to create a conducive environment for sleep.
Emotional Cleansing Through Sleep
Sleep plays a crucial role in emotional learning and stability.
During sleep, emotions are ‘cleaned out’, which can lead to better emotional health.
Lack of sleep can hinder developmental steps that have critical time windows, leading to emotional instability.
