8 interesting things that happen to your body while you sleep
While you’re getting some shuteye, your body is actually hard at work performing a lot of essential functions that you’re not even aware of. So don’t feel guilty about hitting that snooze button.
1. You lose weight
This is number one because it’s pretty much our favourite. You lose weight while asleep through a combination of factors (including the fact that you’re not eating or drinking) and will be at your lightest first thing in the morning. Conversely, it’s important to note that sleep deprivation can actually cause you to gain weight, so not getting enough rest can undo a lot of the good work you put in with diet and exercise.
2. You get taller
Another bonus! The pressure of weight and gravity bearing down as you sit or stand all day compresses your joints, shrinking you ever so slightly. Lying down removes the pressure and especially allows the discs in your back to become rehydrated and expand.
3. You produce more collagen
The good news just keeps on coming. Collagen production increases while you sleep and we all know that collagen reduces fine lines and wrinkles, and minimises pigmentation. This is also why you should use a moisturiser rich in collagen-stimulation retinols and retinoids before bed to assist with the natural process.
4. You become paralysed
When your body is in the deepest phase of sleep (known as REM or rapid eye movement) it becomes temporarily paralysed. Studies suggest that this is because your brain is using extra oxygen during REM sleep, organising thoughts, learning or filing information, so it shuts down other parts of your body that don’t need it.
5. Your brain purges toxins
Studies have found that the space between brain cells increases during sleep, allowing the brain to flush out the toxins that accumulate during waking hours. Toxic molecules that cause neurodegenerative disorders, like Alzheimer’s, live in the areas between the brain cells, so when the brains glymphatic system (essentially the plumbing system) opens up at night it can help clean these nasties out of your system.
6. You forget useless information
Our brain is forced to absorb so much information on a daily basis that it would quickly become overwhelmed if we weren’t able to sort it out. While you’re asleep, your brain works through the data and ‘forgets’ all the useless information you don’t need while filing away the stuff you want.
7. Your immune system is at a high
The peak time for fighting bugs is while you’re fast asleep. Your immune system is at an all time high while your body rests and a lack of sleep has been shown to contribute to contracting recurring infections. So, if you’re under the weather then get under the doona.
8. You can stop breathing
This one isn’t so good. Up to 30 per cent of people suffer from sleep apnea, which means they actually stop breathing (albeit briefly) during the night. This can be a serious and even fatal condition so if you know you snore heavily at night, get yourself to a doctor.
Related links:
5 ways pilates can keep you young
Easy yoga moves you can do at home for health and vitality