News Talk 94.1/AM 1600 Where The Upper Cumberland Talks
Achieving appropriate amounts of sleep is vital for a functioning immune system and overall health.
Cookeville Regional Sleep Center Director Dr. Davis Henson said sleep refuels our antibodies, which stops intruders, such as viruses, from harming the body.
“In this time with the coronavirus, we all want to have a good immune system,” Henson said. “One of the things that happens with getting enough good sleep is that it helps our immune system to work better.”
On average, adults need seven hours of sleep while teenagers need nine hours of sleep. Henson said anxiety can be damaging to sleeping patterns and hinder quality of sleep.
“There are several things we can do to try to avoid the anxiety or try to let the anxiety we have about this coronavirus situation not affect our sleep at night,” Henson said.
Henson said people experiencing sleep troubles should exercise, avoid using devices before sleep and try writing out what they are anxious about.
“In general, if we can get outside, get some exercise, turn the tv off, and get to know the people in the house a little better,it’ll help our anxiety levels and rest better,” Henson said.
Getting enough sleep also lowers risk of heart disease, diabetes, high blood sugar and Alzheimer’s disease.
