Lack of deep sleep in older individuals has been shown to increase the risk of dementia, according to a recent study. The research, conducted by Monash University neuroscientist Matthew Pase, revealed that insufficient slow-wave sleep in people over the age of 60 may raise the risk of dementia by 27% for every 1% loss of deep sleep yearly.
This particular stage of sleep, known as slow-wave sleep, plays a crucial role in strengthening muscles, bones, and the immune system by slowing down brain waves, heart rate, and blood pressure. According to Pase, sleep supports the aging brain in various ways, including facilitating the clearance of metabolic waste from the brain.
The study, which evaluated data from the Framingham Heart Study, involved 346 participants who underwent two overnight sleep examinations between 1995 and 2003. The researchers tracked the participants for an average of five years following the second sleep study and found a link between a decrease in slow-wave sleep and an increased risk of developing dementia and Alzheimer’s disease.
It’s important to note that while the results suggest a connection between slow-wave sleep loss and dementia risk, further research is needed to establish a causative link.
The relationship between sleep and memory has been studied for generations, with modern researchers confirming the impact of different sleep stages on memory development. Studies over the last two decades have indicated that sleep deprivation or excessive sleep can have negative effects on cognitive function and memory.
In addition to the impact of sleep on memory, a recent study conducted by the University of Cincinnati examined the cognitive benefits of strawberry-infused supplement powder in individuals with moderate cognitive decline. The findings suggested that participants who consumed the strawberry-infused powder showed improved executive control during memory testing and exhibited lower depressive symptoms.
Overall, these findings highlight the importance of sleep, particularly slow-wave sleep, in reducing the risk of dementia in older individuals. Additionally, the study on strawberry-infused supplement powder sheds light on potential cognitive benefits that certain dietary interventions may offer. As research in this area continues to advance, it’s crucial to prioritize sleep quality and consider the potential impact of dietary factors on cognitive function and memory.
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