Introduction
Sleep is a vital component for maintaining mental and physical health. Studies show that sleeping too little or at irregular times can lead to serious disorders, including illnesses, premature aging and even premature death. This article explores the relationship between sleep and quality of life, detailing the neurotransmitters involved and the consequences of an inadequate sleep routine.
Why Do We Sleep?
Sleeping takes up a third of our lives and is crucial for survival. Sleep not only provides physical and mental repair but also saves energy. During sleep, daily experiences are processed by the brain, improving memory and eliminating unnecessary information. Lack of adequate sleep directly affects learning and the ability to perform cognitive tasks (Santos, 2021).
Sleep Mechanisms
Sleep is regulated by several regions of the central nervous system (CNS). GABAergic neurons in the ventrolateral preoptic nucleus of the anterior hypothalamus inhibit activating centers responsible for wakefulness, such as the ascending reticular activating system and the basal forebrain. Neurotransmitters such as histamine, acetylcholine, dopamine, serotonin, norepinephrine and hypocretin/orexin participate in the alert system (Neves et al., 2013).
Consequences of Sleep Deprivation
Sleep deprivation leads to a range of health problems, including heart problems, obesity, diabetes and depression. Increased levels of stress hormones during sleep deprivation contribute to these problems. Furthermore, lack of sleep affects concentration, memory, mood and ability to carry out daily tasks (Santos, 2021).
Sleep Cycles
Sleep is divided into REM (Rapid Eye Movement) and NREM (Non-Rapid Eye Movement) phases. The REM phase, which is more difficult to reach, is associated with mental rest and memory consolidation. NREM sleep is divided into three stages, each with specific functions, such as saving energy, restoring tissue and increasing muscle mass. A complete sleep cycle lasts about 90 minutes and is repeated several times during the night (Santos, 2021).
Melatonin and Sleep Regulation
Melatonin, synthesized from serotonin, is crucial for regulating the sleep-wake cycle. This neurotransmitter adjusts the biological clock to the environmental photoperiod, influencing circadian rhythms of body temperature and seasonal physiological functions. Melatonin production is maximized at the beginning of the night, promoting sleep, and inhibited by exposure to light (Botas, 2014).
Homeostatic Sleep Control: Adenosine
Adenosine, an inhibitory neurotransmitter, accumulates throughout the day, causing tiredness and drowsiness. Its removal during sleep is crucial for body recovery. Adenosine accumulation in the basal forebrain is considered the sleep homeostat, influencing the onset of NREM sleep (Zimmermann, 2016).
Impacts of Sleep Deprivation on Health
Chronic sleep deprivation can lead to hallucinations, cellular damage, neurodegenerative diseases and neurological disorders. Studies show that lack of sleep causes high blood pressure, diabetes and affects the immune system. Furthermore, sleep deprivation can result in psychoses, memory disorders, mood swings, and a significant reduction in cognitive abilities (Feinsilver, 2021).
Conclusion
Sleep is essential for physical and mental health. Sleep deprivation deregulates essential neurotransmitters and biological processes, leading to various diseases and increasing the risk of premature death. Establishing an adequate sleep routine is crucial to maintaining biochemical balance and promoting a healthy, long life.
Reference:
SANTOS, Vanessa Sardinha dos. “Why do we sleep?”; Brazil School. Available at: https://brasilescola.uol.com.br/curiosidades/por-que-dormimos.htm. Accessed on March 10, 2021.
NEVES, Gisele S. Moura L.; GIORELLI, Andre S.; FLORIDO, Patrícia; GOMES, Marleide da Mota. “Sleep Disorders: Overview.” Brazilian Journal of Neurology, Volume 49, No. 2, 2013.
BOTAS, Filipe Manuel Carvalho. “THE ROLE OF MELATONIN.” Higher Institute of Health Sciences Egas Moniz, 2014.
ZIMMERMANN, Fernanda Francine. “Establishment of models of social interaction deficit in zebrafish (Danio rerio): evaluation of neurochemical, molecular and behavioral parameters.” Pontifical Catholic University of Rio Grande do Sul, 2016.
FEINSILVER, Steven. Available at: https://www.ecycle.com.br/3288-privacao-de-sono.html. Accessed on March 10, 2021.
