SLEEP boosts your Immune system

Sleep is important to build your cytokine levels for proper immune system functioning.

During sleep, your body creates cytokines which are chemical signals to fight inflammation/infection.

The immune system is better at fighting infection after a good night’s sleep.

Sleep restores the immune system. Sleep improves the functioning of white blood cells and antibodies, as well as cytokines, which all important players in your immune system.

With chronic sleep deprivation (less than 5-6 hours/night), the immune cells are not getting this nightly restoration that sleep provides. Without this restoration, these cells do not function properly.

When sleep deprived, your body also has increased levels of cortisol. Cortisol is used to try to keep you alert and awake, but cortisol suppresses your immune system. With extra cortisol present, your body shifts into fight or flight mode and this suppresses the immune system.

It is important to get adequate sleep when you are healthy and well. It is also important to rest when you are sick. This is why doctors recommend rest (and hydration) when you are sick.