Alzheimer’s disease is a condition that continues to puzzle scientists. While we still don’t know exactly what causes it, research is uncovering strong links between poor sleep and the risk of developing Alzheimer’s. In fact, sleep disturbances may appear years before memory loss and cognitive decline set in.A new study published in 2023 shows that improving sleep, even with the help of sleeping pills, might reduce the build-up of proteins in the brain associated with Alzheimer’s. While it’s too early to say sleeping pills are the answer, this study adds to growing evidence that good sleep isn’t just restful, it may be protective.
How sleeping pills can help combat Alzheimer’s disease
A team of researchers from Washington University in St. Louis conducted a study in 2023 to explore the link between sleep and Alzheimer’s at the molecular level. They discovered that suvorexant, a common sleeping pill, may help reduce the buildup of toxic proteins in the brain associated with Alzheimer’sDuring sleep, the brain has a natural process to clear out waste, including toxic proteins. Sleeping pills might help enhance this process, leading to a reduction in protein buildup. This could potentially slow down or even prevent the progression of Alzheimer’s disease.The study suggests that sleeping pills could help improve this cleaning process, potentially reducing the risk of Alzheimer’s.
Why this matters for Alzheimer’s prevention
This study supports the growing idea that better sleep could help protect the brain against Alzheimer’s. Since amyloid and tau build-up can begin years before symptoms, improving sleep early may be one way to slow or reduce risk. But experts like Dr. Brendan Lucey, who led the study, are careful to point out that it’s still too early to recommend sleeping pills like suvorexant as a preventative treatment for Alzheimer’s. The research is promising.
The risks of relying on sleeping pills
While sleeping pills can help people fall asleep, they’re not always the best solution in the long run.
- Dependence: It’s easy to become reliant on them for sleep.
- Poor
sleep quality : Some pills lead to lighter sleep rather than deep, restorative rest. - Temporary effects: As shown in the study, the reduction in harmful proteins didn’t last long.
Earlier research by Lucey’s team also found that people who got less deep, slow-wave sleep had higher levels of amyloid-beta and tau. So, the quality of sleep is just as important as the quantity.
What you can do to support brain health
Even if sleeping pills aren’t the answer, there are still many safe, healthy ways to improve your sleep and potentially protect your brain:
- Stick to a regular sleep schedule
- Avoid screens and heavy meals before bed
- Keep your bedroom cool, dark, and quiet
- Treat underlying sleep issues like sleep apnea
- Exercise regularly but not too close to bedtime
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