In addition to vaccines, proper nutrition and exercise, one of the most effective ways to fight off illness is to make sure you get enough sleep. In fact, several recent studies point to shut-eye as a way to boost the immune system, including one led by Sheldon Cohen, MD, at Carnegie Mellon University. In his test, adults agreed to have cold viruses sprayed up their noses and then wait five days in a hotel to see if they got sick. When the five days were complete, the majority of the participants had become infected with the virus but not all of them developed a cold. The research revealed that those participants who got at least eight hours of uninterrupted sleep each night were less likely to become sick with the common cold.

Though the exact ways sleep works and how it rejuvenates the body's immune system are still a mystery, sleep experts agree that adequate rest is necessary to keep a healthy body. The National Sleep Foundation says getting the right amount of sleep is part of the "staying well" puzzle. "Research shows that everyone needs sleep, and that it's a critical factor in your health, weight and energy level," says Dr. Marc Schlosberg, a neurologist who works with the sleep lab at the National Rehabilitation Hospital, also in Washington, D.C. "Plus, it cuts down on stress."

For those who want to get more sleep, but have trouble for various reasons including chronic snoring and sleep apnea, take heart. There's a wealth of information and treatment options available. The National Sleep Foundation is a good place to start your research (www.sleepfoundation.org). Talk to your family physician as well. He or she can steer you to a sleep disorders center in your area.

And for all you Type A individuals whose busy schedules don't allow a full eight hours of sleep on a consistent basis, here's something to consider. Factor in the time you'll be out of commission while recovering from a cold or flu you'll realize that adding an extra hour or so to your sleeping schedule will actually give you more time to get things done...and you'll feel better and have more energy doing it!

Sources:
To fight flu, arm your immune system with diet, rest. Val Willingham, CNN Medical Producer
Can more sleep help fight off colds? Crystal Bustamante, Helium.com




Past Newsletters:
Waking up to the facts about snoring (September 2009)
Benefits of a New Bed (August 2009)
Beautyrest Promotion (June 2009)
Memorial Day (May 2009)
Pillow Promotion (May 2009)
Get Ready for the Holidays (November 2008)
Beat The Heat (August 2008)

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