If poor quality sleep increases risk of dementia, as some studies suggest, why not take benzodiazepines to improve sleep? Well, other lines of research conclude that use of this class of medication may also increase dementia risk. Confused? Practice good sleep hygiene and avoid sleeping pills.
A new study seems to explain the effect of insufficient sleep. Beta-amyloid is important in the pathogenesis of Alzheimer’s. The brain’s drainage system (glymphatics) flushes toxins such as beta-amyloid during slow-wave, restorative sleep. It remains to be shown whether improved sleep quality can prevent cognitive impairment. But it couldn’t hurt.
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