While there’s still a lot to learn about the new coronavirus, prior research has shown that well-rested people are better at fending off viruses. Making sure we consistently get a good night’s sleep is one of the best ways we can improve our immunity and defend ourselves against viruses and disease. Sleep is a natural immune booster. 

Your immune system is activated when it recognizes antigens or toxins and other foreign substances to your body. This triggers a response in which the immune system develops antibodies, or cells specifically developed to fight the invader. Once these are produced, the immune system will keep a file and use it again. 

One way sleep helps the immune system is in how it fosters T cell production. T cells are white blood cells that play a critical part in the immune system’s response to viruses. Their activation is an important step in how the body handles invaders, with T cells attacking and destroying virus-carrying cells.

Sleep improves the immune system’s response to threats and viruses. Your body relies on a full night of rest to replenish the cells and proteins it needs to fight diseases.

The immune system’s response time is also improved by getting a good night’s sleep. By completing the four sleep cycles, you’re supporting the release and production of cytokine, a multifaceted protein that helps the immune system quickly respond to antigens.

Focusing on better sleep habits is a good way to strengthen your immune system. The sweet spot for sleep is six to seven hours a night. Stick to a regular bedtime and wake-up schedule. Avoid screens, night-eating, and exercise right before bedtime.

By Kristina Grabnickas, APRN