Understanding Sleep & Insomnia Dr. Sykes

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Listen To The Episode With Dr. Sykes Here: The Daily Dose Podcast

Understanding Sleep And Insomnia

Introduction

Sleep is a fundamental aspect of human life, but it remains one of the most enigmatic and critical components of our well-being. In this exploration, we embark on a journey to understand the intricacies of sleep, delving into its impact on both the mind and the body. Dr. Lucinda Sykes, a seasoned expert in the field, sheds light on the many complexities surrounding sleep and offers insights that can transform the way we perceive and prioritize our rest.

As we age, the challenges of sleep become more pronounced, but there’s hope in understanding and addressing these issues. This in-depth journey explores the science of sleep, its profound influence on the brain, and the chemical processes that govern it.

Sleep Cycles

Sleep is very important for the mind, in this episode Dr. Lucinda Sykes discusses the many complexities of sleep from the mind to the brain and the chemicals in between.

Connection To Dementia

Dr. Sykes was kind enough to share a study done on 8000 people in Europe, it was there they discovered that those with poor sleeping habits over time had increased the likely hood of Dementia symptoms by 30% which is huge.

Sleep Aids

We further delved into the topic of sleep and sleep aid supplements such as cannabis or CBN cannabinoids a derivative of cannabis which has grown in popularity recently.

The Complex World of Sleep

As we all know, there’s more to sleep than meets the eye. Dr. Sykes unravels the intricate mechanisms at play during our restful hours. We explore the stages of sleep, from the rapid eye movement (REM) phase to deep sleep, and the vital role each stage plays in rejuvenating our bodies and minds.

The conversation extends to the chemicals involved in sleep regulation, emphasizing the significance of maintaining a delicate balance within our brain chemistry. Understanding these fundamental processes is key to unlocking the secrets of restorative sleep.

Understanding Sleep And Insomnia Now

Sleeplessness: More Than Just a Restless Night

Many of us have experienced those sleepless nights, tossing and turning as the hours tick away. Dr. Sykes reveals that sleeplessness is more than a mere inconvenience, especially as we age. The medical community long considered sleep troubles in older adults as a normal part of the aging process. However, recent revelations suggest otherwise.

Chronic sleep deprivation, characterized by consistently getting less than six hours of sleep a night, can lead to severe alterations in brain chemistry. Over time, this deficit is linked to a heightened risk of dementia and other brain-related illnesses. The episode also explores the significant impact of sleeplessness on women over 50.

One of the most striking revelations in our journey is the profound link between sleep and dementia. Dr. Sykes shares a groundbreaking European study of 8,000 participants that uncovered a staggering 30% increase in the likelihood of dementia symptoms among those with chronic sleep issues.

While this connection requires further study and exploration, the 30% figure is nothing short of compelling. The discussion underscores the importance of understanding the link between sleep and brain health and the potential to prevent devastating diseases like dementia through improved sleep patterns.

Medication and Sleep: A Complex Relationship

The episode delves into the complexities of using medications to address sleep problems. Dr. Sykes highlights the intricate interplay between sleep, the brain’s natural chemicals, and the potential disruptions caused by sleep medications.

The conversation underscores that seeking a quick fix through chemical solutions may, in fact, have unintended consequences, potentially doing more harm than good.

Natural Sleep Aids: The Role of Cannabinoids

In our quest for better sleep, we explore the role of natural sleep aids, such as cannabis and CBN cannabinoids, a cannabis derivative gaining popularity. The evidence suggests that it’s essential to establish a healthy relationship with these substances, as they too can alter brain chemistry. While they may provide short-term relief, their loss of effectiveness over time can be a sign of overuse.

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Cultivating Healthy Sleep Habits

The bottom line is clear: we all need more sleep. Dr. Sykes encourages us to cultivate better sleep habits, setting the stage for a healthier and more restful future. By understanding the science of sleep and implementing positive changes now, we can potentially safeguard ourselves against the increased risks of dementia and other age-related illnesses.

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Other sleep disorders

Common sleep disorders keeping us up 

According to estimates, 50 million to 70 million people Trusted Source National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI) The NHLBI is the nation’s leader in the prevention and treatment of heart, lung, blood and sleep disorders.View Source have ongoing sleep disorders. The most common among them are insomnia, sleep apnea, and narcolepsy.

  • Sleep disorders  Trusted Source National Library of Medicine, Biotech Information The National Center for Biotechnology Information advances science and health by providing access to biomedical and genomic information.View Source affect 39% to 47% of perimenopausal women and 35% to 60% percent of postmenopausal women.
  • 76% of adults with a sleep issue or disorder share a household with at least one other person who does. 42% of people agree that sleep issues run in their family. | Learn more
  • You may exert as much as 250 pounds of force when you grind your teeth. | Learn more
  • Restless legs syndrome (RLS)  Trusted Source Medline Plus MedlinePlus is an online health information resource for patients and their families and friends. View Source affects 5% to 10% of adults and 2% to 4% of children. | Learn more
  • 1 in every 2,000 adults  Trusted Source Medline PlusMedlinePlus is an online health information resource for patients and their families and friends.View Source has narcolepsy. In the U.S., that equates to about 165,950 people.
  • People with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) are 37.6% more likely  Trusted Source Saudi Journal of Gastroenterology View Source than others to have a sleep disorder.
  • 66% of adults say they have talked in their sleep  Trusted Source Sleep Medicine Research Sleep Medicine Research (Sleep Med Res) is an official journal of the Korean Society of Sleep Medicine (KSSM), Asian Society of Sleep Medicine (ASSM), Korean Society of Sleep Research, and Korean Society of Sleep and Breathing. View Source .
  • 23% of adults say they have had a sleepwalking episode  Trusted Source Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) As the nation’s health protection agency, CDC saves lives and protects people from health threats. View Source .
  • 8% of people have had an episode of sleep paralysis  Trusted Source Sleep Medicine Research Sleep Medicine Research (Sleep Med Res) is an official journal of the Korean Society of Sleep Medicine (KSSM), Asian Society of Sleep Medicine (ASSM), Korean Society of Sleep Research, and Korean Society of Sleep and Breathing. View Source 
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Conclusion

Our journey to understanding sleep has unveiled the intricate relationship between our sleep patterns and brain health. Sleep is not merely a biological necessity; it’s a cornerstone of our well-being. With a deeper comprehension of the complexities of sleep, we are better equipped to address the challenges it poses, especially as we age.

By cultivating healthier sleep habits, exploring natural sleep aids with caution, and fostering a more balanced brain chemistry, we can potentially ward off the increased risks of conditions like dementia. Sleep is not a passive state but an active contributor to our physical and mental vitality. It’s time to embrace the science of sleep and prioritize its role in achieving a healthier, happier life.

FAQs

What Are the Different Stages of Sleep and Their Significance?

Sleep is not a monolithic state but rather a complex sequence of stages. It consists of two main categories: rapid eye movement (REM) and non-rapid eye movement (NREM) sleep. NREM sleep is further divided into three stages, with stage 3 being the deepest. The different stages serve unique functions, with deep NREM sleep facilitating physical restoration and REM sleep crucial for mental rejuvenation. Understanding these stages can help you appreciate the intricate process of sleep and its vital role in overall well-being.

How Can Chronic Sleep Deprivation Impact Brain Chemistry?

Chronic sleep deprivation, defined as consistently getting less than six hours of sleep per night, can lead to significant changes in brain chemistry. It disrupts the balance of neurotransmitters, including serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine, which are essential for mood regulation and cognitive function. It can also elevate stress hormones like cortisol. Over time, these alterations may increase the risk of mental health issues, such as anxiety and depression. Chronic sleep deprivation is also associated with an increased risk of neurodegenerative diseases, like dementia, and other cognitive impairments.

What Is the Link Between Sleep and Dementia?

Recent studies have revealed a compelling link between poor sleep and the development of dementia. Chronic sleep problems, especially in older adults, are associated with a heightened risk of dementia. A significant European study with 8,000 participants showed a 30% increase in the likelihood of dementia symptoms in individuals with chronic sleep issues. While the exact mechanisms behind this link require further investigation, it underscores the importance of addressing sleep problems and fostering healthier sleep habits to potentially reduce the risk of devastating conditions like dementia.

Are Sleep Medications a Viable Solution for Sleep Problems?

The use of sleep medications is a complex issue. While they can offer short-term relief, it’s essential to approach them with caution. Sleep medications may disrupt the natural balance of neurotransmitters and brain chemistry. They can also lead to dependence and worsen sleep issues when used for extended periods. Additionally, they may have side effects and interactions with other medications. It’s advisable to consult with a healthcare professional before resorting to sleep medications and explore alternative solutions to address sleep problems.

What Are the Natural Sleep Aids, and How Do They Impact Brain Chemistry?

Natural sleep aids, such as cannabis and CBN cannabinoids, have gained popularity for their potential to improve sleep. These substances interact with the endocannabinoid system, influencing sleep-wake cycles. While they may provide short-term relief, it’s crucial to understand that they, too, can impact brain chemistry. Overuse or reliance on these natural sleep aids may lead to reduced effectiveness over time. It’s advisable to use them in moderation and consider alternative methods for fostering better sleep, such as improving sleep hygiene and establishing a consistent sleep schedule.

How Can I Cultivate Healthy Sleep Habits?

Cultivating healthy sleep habits is crucial for achieving restorative sleep. Begin by establishing a consistent sleep schedule, going to bed and waking up at the same times each day, even on weekends. Create a comfortable sleep environment by keeping your bedroom dark, quiet, and at a cool temperature. Limit exposure to screens before bedtime, as the blue light emitted can disrupt your circadian rhythm. Engage in relaxation techniques like deep breathing or meditation to reduce stress. Finally, avoid caffeine and heavy meals close to bedtime. By incorporating these habits into your daily routine, you can enhance the quality of your sleep and reduce the risk of sleep-related issues.

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Meet The Author

Mike Korlin

I have been studying and applying functional medicine in my personal life for nearly a decade. As a student, a retailer and a human being my knowledge is drawn from my own and thousands of other peoples experiences that I have spoken to or aided in discovering the wonderful world of plant medicines.

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