8. Sleep Disorders – The Sleep-Dementia Connection
A good night’s sleep is vital for our overall health and well-being. It’s during sleep that our bodies repair themselves, and our brains consolidate memories. Unsurprisingly, sleep disorders that disrupt this critical rest period can increase the risk of dementia.
Sleep disorders, such as sleep apnea, where breathing periodically stops or becomes shallow during sleep, have been associated with an increased risk of dementia. Sleep apnea can lead to intermittent hypoxia (low oxygen levels), which can cause damage to the brain’s cells over time.
Moreover, chronic sleep deprivation can lead to the build-up of beta-amyloid, a protein associated with Alzheimer’s disease. Lack of sleep can also affect mood, memory, and cognitive function, all of which are vital for maintaining brain health.(8)
