Diabetics Need to Improve Their Sleep to Fortify Their Immune System

Diabetics Need to Improve Their Sleep to Fortify Their Immune System

One of the biggest problems with diabetes is that it can have many negative effects on your sleep. It’s been estimated that at least 1/3 of all diabetics experience sleep problems as a result of their condition, ranging from things like restless motion up to severe sleep apnea.

While not getting enough sleep is hard enough on its own, it can also harm your immune system and body, making you much more prone to sickness. Sleep is incredibly important for your body in so many different ways.

It’s your body’s time for recovery, and while it may seem like you’re resting, your body is actually very busy making repairs while you’re asleep. Many of these processes can only really be done during sleep, so if you’re not getting enough, you’re going to cut them off and leave yourself not fully restored.

For example, antibodies, T-cells, and certain kinds of cytokines are made by your body during sleep. All of these are important components of your immune system, so if you don’t get an ample amount of sleep so that your body can stock up on them, you’re going to have a lowered immune system.
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A weakened immune system won’t even be the worst of your problems if you’re not getting enough sleep. Studies have found that those who don’t get enough sleep are more prone to high blood pressure, weight gain, heart disease, and more. 

Since diabetics already struggle with some of those, you really don’t want to skimp out on sleep and make it any worse. The problem is that while the issues caused by a lack of sleep are particularly harmful for diabetics, it’s diabetics who struggle with sleep the most. 

One of the most common things that prevents diabetics from getting enough sleep is sleep apnea, in which your breathing pattern is messed up while you’re sleeping leading to snoring and poor sleep.

In order to improve your sleep, there are a couple of things that you can do. First, you should have a consistent bed time that you stick with, instead of changing the time you go to sleep each night. 

Second, if you have a particular condition that prevents your sleep, you should look into certain devices that can help. For example, CPAP machines can help those with sleep apnea sleep soundly, and those with restless legs or arms can use a weighted blanket to prevent spasms